With 100 days to go until the 16th China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition (Airshow China 2026), the event's organizers launched the countdown on August 28 in Zhuhai, Guangdong. Scheduled for December 7-13, 2026, this year's edition will also mark the 30th anniversary of the airshow, which has evolved from a modest regional gathering into one of the world's most significant aerospace events.
At the launch ceremony, a commemorative logo for the 30th anniversary was unveiled. The design features a three-dimensional, gold-toned "30" as its central element, surrounded by gradient ribbons in blue, purple, and magenta, symbolizing technological advancement and the aviation industry's dynamic growth. Founded in 1996, Airshow China has consistently expanded its international participation and professional scope.
Li Xiaodong, Deputy Secretary-General of the People's Government of Zhuhai Municipality and Deputy Secretary-General of the Zhuhai Executive Committee of Airshow China, emphasized the event's transformation. "Over the past three decades, Airshow China has grown increasingly international, professional and market-oriented, establishing itself as one of the world's premier airshows. In 2026, Airshow China will continue to benchmark itself against world-class exhibitions and contribute to the development of aviation industry clusters," he said.
The countdown event also featured a World Airshow Dialogue session, where representatives from global aviation bodies discussed key topics such as global industrial-chain coordination, green aviation, low-altitude economy (advanced air mobility), aircraft engines aftermarket services, and general aviation development. Remote participants included officials from MAKS, the International Aviation and Space Salon, and executives from Boeing, who expressed enthusiasm for returning to Airshow China to showcase their latest innovations and deepen industrial exchanges.
During a round-table dialogue, Dai Haibin, spokesperson for AVIC General Aircraft Company, highlighted that Airshow China has served as an ideal platform for debuting major aircraft, including the AG600 "Kunlong" amphibious aircraft. Xu Shixin, Chief Operating Officer of Embraer China, pointed out that the Chinese market's huge potential and well-developed industrial system open broad cooperation opportunities in green aviation and low-altitude economy. "Drawing on its accumulated technological expertise, Embraer stands ready for deeper collaboration on eVTOL aircraft development and the building of a low-altitude transportation ecosystem," he added.
The event also saw the signing of IP merchandise cooperation agreements between Zhuhai Airshow International Culture Communication Co., Ltd. and partners such as Beijing Institute of Technology, Zhuhai; Alipay (Hangzhou) Digital Service Technology Co., Ltd.; and Truly HONEST Investment Limited. These collaborations will focus on product development blending traditional culture with aerospace technology, AI-powered digital commemorative tickets using NFC technology, and derivative products based on sci-fi intellectual properties.
Airshow China's growth over 30 years is reflected in its footprint: from less than 8,000 square meters at its debut in 1996 to 450,000 square meters at the latest edition, with participating countries and regions increasing from 25 to 47. This expansion cements its status as one of the world's most influential aviation and aerospace exhibitions. As the countdown progresses, anticipation builds for an event that promises to showcase the latest advancements and foster global cooperation in the aerospace sector.
