ILA Berlin 2026 has officially opened at BER Airport [Berlin Brandenburg Airport], bringing together more than 750 exhibitors from 37 countries and an expected 100,000 visitors for one of Europe’s leading aerospace, space, and defence trade fairs. The exhibition highlights the growing convergence of aviation, space, and security technologies, alongside strong political participation and industry engagement from across the world.
Europe’s Leading Aerospace Platform
ILA Berlin 2026 is taking place under the theme “Pioneering Aerospace,” reaffirming its position as Europe’s leading trade fair for aerospace, defence, and technological innovation. Over the next five days, it will serve as a central platform for industry, government, armed forces, academia, and startups to discuss the future of aviation, space, and security.
The event underscores the close link between technological strength, industrial competitiveness, and strategic autonomy, with a focus on climate-friendly aviation, space systems, digitalisation, and defence capabilities.
High-Level Political Participation
The opening ceremony was led by German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz, alongside senior federal and state leaders, highlighting the strategic importance of the aerospace sector.
Dr. Michael Schöllhorn, President of the BDLI, said: “This ILA comes at just the right time: a time when Germany and Europe need economic growth, sustainable mobility, access to space, as well as security and sovereignty more urgently than ever. The aerospace industry stands for all of these things and is presenting a strategic vision for the future at the ILA.”
Dirk Hoffmann, COO of Messe Berlin, added: “ILA Berlin continues to grow and underscores its role as Europe’s leading innovation platform for aerospace. With exhibitors from around the world, high-level delegations, and a unique program, ILA brings the international aerospace community together at BER.”
Strong International Turnout
The event is witnessing participation from high-ranking political leaders, including state premiers, federal ministers, and defence officials from Germany and Europe. The strong presence reflects the increasing importance of aerospace and defence industries in addressing geopolitical uncertainty, technological transformation, and security challenges.
Aircraft Displays and Live Demonstrations
Around 100 aircraft are being showcased across flying and static displays. Key highlights include the German Heron TP unmanned aerial system, Leonardo’s AW249 combat helicopter, Boeing’s P-8A Poseidon, and General Atomics’ Do228 NXT.
Static exhibits include major platforms such as the Airbus Beluga and the Emirates Airbus A380, alongside special livery aircraft marking aviation milestones.
Innovation, Startups, and Unmanned Systems
A major focus of ILA Berlin 2026 is on unmanned systems, digital aviation, and emerging defence technologies. For the first time, the Drone Pavilion is featuring live demonstrations of unmanned aerial systems in a dedicated testing environment.
The new Start-up Hub is also showcasing early-stage companies working on autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, and space technologies, connecting them with investors and industry partners.
Talent and Workforce Development
ILA 2026 is also focusing on workforce development through its Talent Hub, bringing together companies, students, and young professionals across engineering, aviation, and defence sectors. A special focus this year is placed on pilot training and aviation careers, reflecting growing industry demand for skilled personnel.
Event Schedule
ILA Berlin 2026 is taking place from 10 to 14 June at BER Airport. Trade visitors are attending from 10 to 12 June, while the final two days are open to the public. The public weekend has already been fully booked.
