ILA Berlin 2026 Opens as Europe’s Premier Aerospace and Defence Gathering

BERLIN, June 10, 2026 – ILA Berlin 2026 officially opened today at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), bringing together the global aerospace, space and defence community under the theme “Pioneering Aerospace.” Over the next five days, the exhibition is expected to welcome approximately 100,000 visitors, more than 750 exhibitors from 37 countries and around 330 official delegations representing over 60 nations.

Widely regarded as Europe’s leading aerospace trade exhibition, ILA Berlin serves as a strategic platform for showcasing innovation, strengthening international cooperation and discussing the future of aviation, defence and space technologies.

The exhibition was officially inaugurated by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, accompanied by numerous senior political leaders and government officials. Among those attending are German Federal Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Katherina Reiche, Federal Minister of Transport Patrick Schnieder, and Federal Minister of Research, Technology and Space Dorothee Bär, highlighting the strategic importance of the aerospace sector for Germany and Europe.

This year’s edition places particular emphasis on technological sovereignty, industrial competitiveness and security in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment. Discussions throughout the exhibition will focus on climate-friendly aviation, defence capabilities, space technologies, digital transformation, workforce development and Europe’s long-term technological resilience.

Dr. Michael Schöllhorn, President of the German Aerospace Industries Association (BDLI), noted that the aerospace sector is uniquely positioned to support Europe’s ambitions for economic growth, sustainable mobility, security and sovereign technological capabilities.

ILA Berlin 2026 also features a comprehensive conference programme with high-profile speakers from government, industry, academia and the armed forces. Participants include ESA Director General Dr. Josef Aschbacher, German astronauts Matthias Maurer, Alexander Gerst and Rabea Rogge, as well as senior military leaders including NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) General Alexus G. Grynkewich and General Carsten Breuer, Inspector General of the Bundeswehr.

A major attraction of the exhibition remains its extensive aircraft display. Around 100 aircraft are being showcased both on the ground and in flight demonstrations. Highlights include the German Armed Forces’ Heron TP unmanned aerial system making its ILA flying display debut, Leonardo’s AW249 combat helicopter, Boeing’s P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and the Do228 NXT from General Atomics.

Visitors can also view several notable aircraft in the static display area, including the Airbus Beluga, the Emirates Airbus A380 and a special Lufthansa Airbus A320neo featuring commemorative “100 Years of Lufthansa” livery.

Reflecting the growing importance of unmanned systems, ILA 2026 introduces a dedicated Drone Pavilion and live demonstration area, while the new Start-up Hub provides emerging technology companies with opportunities to engage with industry leaders, investors and government representatives. Technologies showcased range from autonomous systems and artificial intelligence applications to advanced space solutions.

With its strong international participation, extensive exhibition programme and focus on innovation, ILA Berlin 2026 once again reinforces its position as one of the world’s most influential aerospace and defence events.