Author: Dr. Walid EL FEZZANI, Electrical and Electronic Engineering Department, College of Engineering, Gulf University, Sanad 26489, Kingdom of Bahrain , dr.walid.elfezzani@gulfuniversity.edu.bh
From November 13 to 15, the Bahrain International Airshow 2024 took place at Sakhir Air Base and has become a clear indicator of the progress achieved in the aerospace and defense industry. More than 125 aircraft participated this year including the US Department of Defense-owned B52h Stratofortress and a refurbished Boeing 737-800 cabin interior operated by flydubai. Among the representatives of this were the Saudi Hawks aerobatic team of the Royal Saudi Air Force and the Sarang Helicopter Display Team of the Indian Air Force.
The event had a hungry static display area of 86,000 square meters and covered a hall area of 14.000 square meters accommodating and exceeding 120 displayed airplanes. The event also had the presence of pavilion areas for Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, China, and the
United States which shows their significance towards the aviation industry. Bahrain International Airport Services “BIAS” 2024 featured conferences and workshops focusing on sustainability, technological progress, and international cooperation in the aerospace industry. The sessions facilitated industry leaders and others in active discussions regarding emerging topics concerning the future and difficulties in various sectors. Big business announcements were also guaranteed; for instance, Valo Aviation took a risk and became the first business jet operator in the country of Bahrain only after obtaining an Air Operator’s Certificate. Another noteworthy announcement made at the event was the cooperation between Iron Net and Asterion for the betterment of aviation infrastructure cybersecurity. Shifting now to the overarching theme of the show, BIAS 2024 without a doubt consolidated the position of Bahrain as a serious global player in the aerospace sector capable of spearheading innovation and fostering deeper international collaboration.
The participation of Gulf University during the event is remarkable where the university engaged various business entities and explored possible avenues to enhance its engineering programs. Its delegation participated in several workshops and conferences to update themselves on news in the global industry and current trends in technologies. This involvement emphasizes the assurance of Gulf University that the education it delivers is timely and relevant and thus targets the needs of the aerospace niche. Second, the active presence of Gulf University at the airshow is one more proof of its effective rise in Bahrain’s aviation and education circles which reflect its readiness for energy active engagement in national development processes while preparing its graduates for career prospects in the international aerospace market.
References:
Defense Here. (2024). Bahrain Airshow 2024 launches with strong global interest. Retrieved from http://www.defensehere.com/en/bahrain-airshow-2024-launches-with-strong-global-interest.
Bahrain This Week. (2024). Flying Forward. Retrieved from http://www.bahrainthisweek.com/flying-forward/.
Dev Discourse. (2024). Sarang Helicopter Team gears up for spectacular Bahrain Airshow 2024. Retrieved from http://www.devdiscourse.com/article/headlines/3144425-sarang-helicopter-team-gears-up-for-spectacular-bahrain-air-show-2024.
Bahrain Moments. (2024). Bahrain International Airshow Returns in November 2024. Retrieved from http://www.bahrainmoments.com/bahrain-international-airshow-returns-in-november-2024-592384.html.
Arab News. (2024). Bahrain Airshow 2024 focuses on aviation innovation. Retrieved from http://www.arabnews.com/node/2578993/business-economy.
Airshow Official Website. (2024). Bahrain International Airshow Preview. Retrieved from http://www.airshow.bh/bahrain-international-airshow-preview/.
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