Event Dates: February 3–8, 2026
Location: Changi Exhibition Centre, 9 Aviation Park Road, Singapore
Expected Attendance: Over 50,000 visitors from more than 135 countries
The Singapore Airshow is Asia's most prestigious aerospace and defense exhibition. Held biennially, it brings together the world's leading aviation companies, defense contractors, airlines, government officials, and industry professionals. The 2026 edition is particularly significant as it coincides with Southeast Asia's rapid aviation market expansion and Singapore's implementation of new sustainable aviation fuel policies. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about attending or exhibiting at this major event.
Understanding Singapore Airshow 2026
What is Singapore Airshow?
Singapore Airshow is not merely a trade show where companies display products. It is a strategic business event where multibillion-dollar contracts are negotiated, military procurement decisions are made, and the future direction of aviation technology is discussed. The event attracts commercial airline executives making aircraft purchasing decisions, military chiefs evaluating defense systems, government procurement officials, aerospace manufacturers, maintenance and repair operators, and emerging technology companies seeking market access.
The show is organized into two distinct segments: Trade Days (February 3–6) focused exclusively on industry professionals, and Public Days (February 7–8) open to families and aviation enthusiasts. This dual-format approach ensures serious business can be conducted during the week while public engagement occurs on weekends.
Why 2026 is Different
Several factors make the 2026 edition particularly important. First, Singapore's government is launching a Sustainable Aviation Fuel levy on all departing flights beginning in 2026. This policy change transforms sustainable aviation from a regulatory requirement into an immediate market opportunity. Airlines departing from Singapore's Changi Airport will be required to integrate SAF into their fuel mix, creating immediate demand for companies offering sustainable fuel production, carbon accounting solutions, and fuel-efficient aircraft systems.
Second, geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region have prompted Southeast Asian nations to accelerate military modernization programs. Defense spending across ASEAN is rising, creating opportunities for companies offering fighter aircraft, surveillance systems, air defense networks, and related defense technologies. Singapore Airshow provides the premier venue for defense contractors to access procurement decision-makers from multiple governments simultaneously.
Third, the aviation market in Southeast Asia continues explosive growth. The region's expanding middle class, economic development, and increasing business travel mean more airlines are expanding fleets. Commercial aircraft manufacturers and suppliers find Singapore Airshow essential for connecting with airline customers and regional distributors.
Event Schedule and Format
Trade Days (February 3–6, 2026)
Trade Days are the core of Singapore Airshow. Access is restricted to registered industry professionals, exhibitors, and invited government delegations. These four days feature the most significant business activity, with executives conducting meetings, negotiating contracts, and discussing major procurement decisions.
The typical daily schedule during Trade Days is 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with the flying display typically occurring around 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. This timing allows morning business meetings followed by lunch and afternoon flying displays. Many executives and delegations use the flying display as a social gathering point, making it an excellent opportunity for informal networking while observing aircraft demonstrations.
Several specialized forums occur during Trade Days, including the Sustainable Aviation Forum (addressing SAF adoption, regulatory frameworks, and technology development), the Advanced Air Mobility Forum (discussing electric vertical takeoff aircraft and urban air mobility solutions), the Defense Forum (covering procurement trends and security challenges), and the MRO Forum (addressing aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul services).
Public Days (February 7–8, 2026)
The weekend segment shifts the focus to public visitors, aviation enthusiasts, and families. Flying displays are expanded with additional aerobatic performances. The static aircraft display remains open, and many companies increase their booth staffing for public engagement. This segment is valuable for companies seeking brand visibility and public awareness rather than direct business transactions.
Flying Displays and Static Aircraft
Flying displays are among the most compelling aspects of Singapore Airshow. During Trade Days, displays typically feature military aircraft (including advanced fighter jets like the F-35), commercial demonstration aircraft (such as Airbus A350 or Boeing 777X), and aerobatic teams from various countries. These demonstrations showcase aircraft capabilities, performance characteristics, and advanced systems.
The static display area features aircraft parked on the tarmac where visitors can view them up close. Permission to enter some aircraft (particularly military aircraft) is limited, creating natural bottlenecks. Advanced booking or early arrival is recommended for accessing the most popular aircraft.
Practical Information for Attendees
Getting to Changi Exhibition Centre
Changi Exhibition Centre is located on reclaimed land northeast of Changi Airport, separate from the airport's main terminals. This location presents logistical considerations for visitors.
The official Airshow shuttle bus system is the most reliable transportation method. Shuttle buses depart from Singapore Expo Hall 5, which is located adjacent to Expo MRT Station on the East-West (Green) and Downtown (Blue) lines. Buses operate every 15–20 minutes during peak hours (8:00–9:30 AM and 4:00–6:00 PM), with less frequent service during midday hours. The journey from Expo to Changi Exhibition Centre takes approximately 15–20 minutes via dedicated shuttle bus lanes that bypass general traffic congestion.
Ticket fares for the shuttle bus are approximately SGD 15–17 per trip (round trip SGD 30–35). Booking is available through the official event website during ticket registration or at Expo on arrival. This system is preferable to conventional taxis because it eliminates traffic delays and guarantees predictable travel times.
Alternatively, taxi services and ride-sharing applications (Grab, Gojek) serve the venue, though location surcharges of SGD 15–20 typically apply for pickups at Changi Exhibition Centre. More significantly, peak-hour congestion (particularly 4:00–6:00 PM when the show closes) can result in 60–90 minute waiting times and surge pricing.
Private minibus or coach services can be arranged for exhibitor teams or organized groups. However, these must be booked in advance through event transport coordinators and require cargo space verification.
Ticket Information and Registration
All tickets for Singapore Airshow 2026 are sold exclusively through online pre-registration. No walk-in purchases are available at the venue, a system implemented to ensure security, manage attendance, and eliminate counterfeit tickets.
For Trade Day access, prices are approximately SGD 80 for early-bird registrations (ending December 2025) and SGD 120–150 for standard registrations. Trade Day passes are restricted to industry professionals and require business email verification and company affiliation confirmation.
Public day admission is priced at approximately SGD 35 for adults and SGD 17 for children aged 3–12. Group packages for four or more people are available at approximately SGD 120 total. All tickets are digital, issued as QR codes via email, and require scanning at venue entry points.
The registration process is straightforward: visit the official event website, create an account, select your ticket type and date, complete payment, and receive digital confirmation. Optional shuttle bus tickets can be purchased simultaneously.
Accommodation
Hotels in Singapore near Expo MRT Station (the shuttle bus departure point) book out rapidly during Airshow week. Recommended accommodation areas include hotels near Changi Business Park (closest to the venue), the Bugis/City Hall area (excellent MRT connectivity and dining options), and Marina Bay (for luxury accommodations, though requiring 30–40 minute taxi travel to the shuttle point).
Standard room rates increase 20–40% during the Airshow week compared to normal rates. Booking accommodations 2–3 months in advance is strongly recommended. Select hotels offering flexible cancellation policies in case plans change.
Comprehensive Guide for Exhibitors
Understanding the Venue and Setup Requirements
Changi Exhibition Centre operates under strict security protocols typical of aviation-related facilities. All materials entering the venue must pass security screening. Setup windows are limited, typically allowing 1–2 days of booth construction before show opening. Construction waste disposal is tightly regulated, and damage to booth structures results in substantial penalty fees.
These conditions create significant logistical challenges for exhibitors, particularly those shipping materials internationally. Traditional booth construction methods involving on-site contractors, heavy materials, and power tools require advance security clearance and incur substantial costs.
Booth Options and Pricing
The event organizers offer multiple booth configurations accommodating different business models and budgets.
Raw exhibition space (indoor halls) is available at approximately SGD 1,630 per square meter with a minimum booking of 36 square meters. This option provides maximum flexibility for companies with in-house design expertise and sufficient lead time to manage logistics. Companies selecting this option typically hire their own contractors to construct custom booth environments.
Shell Scheme booths (standardized pre-fabricated booth systems) are available at approximately SGD 1,785 per square meter with a minimum 12 square meter booking. This includes prefabricated walls, carpet flooring, basic electrical connections (2–3 standard outlets), and company name signage. Shell Scheme is ideal for mid-sized companies and first-time exhibitors seeking simplicity and cost predictability. The organizers' contractors handle all assembly.
Outdoor exhibition space (for large equipment, vehicles, or systems) is available at SGD 525 per square meter (space only), SGD 1,050 per square meter (with basic pavilion structure), or SGD 1,050 per square meter (private enclosed pavilion).
Hospitality chalets—private pavilions overlooking the flying display and aircraft parking areas—are available starting at approximately SGD 99,750. These exclusive spaces provide premium seating for VIP client entertainment, confidential meeting areas, and dedicated catering facilities. Chalets are particularly valuable for executives conducting high-value negotiations in sophisticated environments while simultaneously hosting clients for flying display viewing.
Aircraft static display areas are available at tiered pricing based on aircraft size: SGD 6,300 for aircraft under 3 tonnes, SGD 8,400 for 3–10 tonnes, SGD 12,600 for 10–30 tonnes, SGD 18,900 for 30–60 tonnes, and SGD 23,100+ for aircraft exceeding 60 tonnes.
Portable Display Solutions: The Smart Choice
Given the logistical challenges of traditional booth construction at Changi Exhibition Centre, many exhibitors utilize portable display systems. These lightweight, tool-free solutions can be hand-carried or transported via standard vehicles, pass security screening without complications, and are assembled by a single person in 15–30 minutes without tools or contractors.
Pullupstand.com offers several solutions specifically suited for Airshow exhibitors.
Pop Up Backdrop displays transform standard Shell Scheme white walls with custom branded graphics printed on high-resolution material. These systems use magnetic or velcro mounting systems, assemble in approximately 15 minutes, and are packaged in wheeled hard cases for transport via shuttle buses or taxis. A professionally designed backdrop dramatically enhances booth appearance, creates brand impact, and differentiates your space from competing exhibitors.
Roll Up Banner stands provide vertical branding impact with minimal floor footprint. These are ideal for placement at booth corners, aisle entry points, or near aircraft in static display areas. The lightweight aluminum frames set up in minutes and accommodate various banner sizes and designs. Multiple banners can be strategically positioned to maximize visibility from different angles.
Pop Up Counters serve as reception areas and product display surfaces. These foldable units combine professional appearance with storage capability, allowing staff to organize business cards, literature, and promotional materials while maintaining a clean, organized booth aesthetic. The counter provides a focal point for visitor engagement and creates a designated area for conducting business discussions.
Brochure stands keep printed materials organized and accessible. These zig-zag style literature holders fold flat for transport but provide professional presentation of company information and product catalogs. Well-organized literature presentation encourages visitor engagement and information retention.
All these solutions share several advantages for exhibitors: no customs complications, no security delays, no risk of damage penalties, assembly by existing staff without contractors, and transportation via standard vehicles or hand-carrying.
Pre-Show Preparation Timeline
Successful Airshow participation requires careful planning. Approximately three months before the event (mid-November), exhibitors should finalize booth design concepts and prepare artwork files for printing. Display materials should be ordered immediately to allow for production and delivery—rushing orders during January typically incurs substantial rush fees and risks delivery delays.
Approximately one month before the event, final booth setup plans should be confirmed, including electrical requirements (high-power equipment must be ordered well in advance to avoid surcharges), internet requirements, and logistics coordination for material delivery to Singapore.
Two weeks before the event, all exhibit materials should be in Singapore, either stored at the hotel or the exhibition venue's designated storage area. A final meeting with key booth staff should confirm roles, responsibilities, messaging, and contingency plans.
One week before opening, exhibitors and key staff should arrive in Singapore, confirm accommodation, and prepare for the booth setup period.
For display system orders and consultations, contact Pullupstand.com to ensure timely delivery and optimal booth configuration.
Strategic Networking and Business Opportunities
Pre-Show Planning
Successful exhibitors and visitors maximize their return through advance planning. This includes identifying target contacts through LinkedIn and company websites 3–4 weeks before the event, sending personalized messages proposing specific meetings, and confirming meeting schedules approximately one week before the show.
Creating a detailed daily itinerary with meeting times, booth locations, and contingency activities ensures efficient use of the limited time available. Building in 15–20 minute travel buffers between locations and scheduling lower-priority activities during predictable congestion periods (such as 11:30 AM–1:00 PM when most attendees are watching flying displays) optimizes schedule adherence.
Maximizing Trade Day Attendance
Trade Days are the premium networking opportunity. Most high-value business discussions occur during these four days. Booth staffing should be maximized during Trade Day hours, with key decision-makers available to meet important prospects or established clients.
Many successful exhibitors coordinate entertainment of key clients or prospects during the midday flying display, combining business discussion with the compelling spectacle of aircraft demonstrations. This informal setting often facilitates the most productive business conversations.
Practical Considerations and Tips
Professional Conduct and Dress Code
Trade Days maintain a formal business environment. Business attire is required—formal shirts or blouses, business trousers or skirts, ties for men, and closed-toe dress shoes. Casual apparel including t-shirts, shorts, sandals, or athletic wear results in denial of entry.
Attendees should prepare business cards for exchanging with contacts. Bilingual cards (English on one side, Chinese, Indonesian, Vietnamese, or Thai on the reverse) are particularly valuable in the Southeast Asian context.
Communication and Technology
While Changi Exhibition Centre provides public WiFi, the network becomes severely congested during business hours due to 50,000+ simultaneous users. Exhibitors conducting demonstrations or real-time business activities should arrange dedicated internet lines through the venue (available at additional cost) or obtain local mobile SIM cards as backup.
Mobile phone coverage is generally reliable, though signal strength can vary within the large exhibition halls. Charging stations are limited; personal power banks are strongly recommended.
Physical Considerations
The exhibition venue spans a large geographic area. Comfortable walking shoes are essential; high heels are impractical. The outdoor static display area features limited shade and intense sun exposure in February. Sunscreen and hats are strongly recommended for visitors spending extended time in these areas.
The outdoor flying display area can become crowded during peak viewing times. Arriving 30 minutes early for scheduled displays ensures optimal viewing positioning and seat availability.
Health and Safety
Standard hygiene practices should be maintained throughout the event. The venue provides catering services, though queues during peak hours (12:00–1:30 PM) can extend 20–30 minutes. Carrying bottled water and light snacks reduces reliance on venue food services.
Ear protection is recommended for those spending extended time near the flying display area during demonstrations—jet aircraft produce noise levels exceeding 100 decibels, which can cause temporary or permanent hearing damage.
Industry Context and Market Trends
Sustainable Aviation Fuel Integration
Singapore's implementation of a passenger levy on departing flights beginning in 2026, with proceeds dedicated to purchasing Sustainable Aviation Fuel, represents a watershed moment for aviation's environmental transition. Airlines, fuel suppliers, and aircraft manufacturers recognize this as a critical inflection point for SAF market development in Southeast Asia.
Companies offering SAF production capabilities, sustainable aviation materials, carbon accounting software, or fuel-efficient aircraft systems will find unprecedented market receptivity among airline customers and government procurement officials at the 2026 Airshow. Early movers in this segment will establish market leadership positions.
Regional Defense Modernization
Geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region have prompted Southeast Asian nations to accelerate military modernization programs. Fighter aircraft procurement, maritime surveillance systems, air defense networks, and related defense technologies represent major purchasing categories for the next 3–5 years.
Singapore Airshow uniquely provides defense contractors access to procurement decision-makers from 8–12 countries simultaneously, making it an essential event for companies serving the regional defense market.
Aviation Market Growth
Southeast Asia's aviation sector is experiencing growth rates 2–3 times the global average. Rising incomes, business travel expansion, and regional economic development drive airline fleet expansion. Airlines throughout Southeast Asia are modernizing fleets, creating opportunities for aircraft manufacturers, maintenance providers, and technology suppliers.
Emerging Technologies
Electric vertical takeoff aircraft (eVTOL) for urban transportation, autonomous aircraft systems, and artificial intelligence-powered operations represent growth vectors in aviation. While near-term revenue remains limited, Singapore Airshow 2026 will feature significant focus on these emerging technologies, providing opportunities for companies staking claims in future market segments.
Conclusion
Singapore Airshow 2026 represents a critical convergence point for aerospace and defense industries in the Asia-Pacific region. For exhibitors, the event offers unmatched access to procurement decision-makers, defense officials, and corporate customers considering multimillion-dollar acquisitions. For attendees, the show provides rare opportunities to conduct in-person relationship-building with global industry leaders in a concentrated, structured environment.
Success at the airshow derives from preparation, strategic prioritization, and intentional networking. Whether participating as an exhibitor deploying display systems or as an attendee managing a meeting schedule, advance planning, logistical attention, and clear business objectives determine return on investment.
The convergence of sustainable aviation imperatives, defense modernization requirements, regional economic growth, and technological disruption makes February 2026 particularly consequential. Companies positioning themselves at the intersection of these trends—offering solutions addressing SAF integration, military modernization, MRO digital transformation, and emerging aviation technologies—will find the event's audience particularly receptive.
Ready to Exhibit at Singapore Airshow 2026?
For professional booth display solutions designed specifically for Airshow logistics, Pullupstand.com provides portable, tool-free systems that maximize impact while minimizing setup complications. Our Pop Up Displays, Roll Up Banners, Pop Up Counters, and Brochure Stands are engineered for trade show success.
Contact Pullupstand.com today for custom booth consultations, design recommendations, and rush delivery options. Let us help you make Singapore Airshow 2026 your most successful exhibition yet.
