The El Alamein International Airshow is gaining momentum as an international aerospace and defense industry platform, with its second major edition attracting more companies, delegations and visitors than its inaugural event.
Held from September 8 to 10 at El Alamein International Airport, the 2026 edition brought together 250 companies from more than 50 countries, according to Keith Barthelot, Sales Director at Bridge Exhibitions, which represents and sells exhibition space for the airshow.
Speaking to Defensehere on the sidelines of the event, Barthelot said the show had exceeded expectations, with more than 12,000 visitors attending over the three days — an increase of more than 30 percent compared with the previous edition.
The international character of the event was also reflected in the participation of more than 120 delegations, representing countries across Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Europe and the Americas.
Beyond its growing exhibition footprint, the airshow is positioning itself as a meeting point for governments, armed forces and defense companies looking to develop business and industrial relationships in a strategically important region.
While many military agreements and commercial discussions take place behind closed doors, Barthelot said the response from key stakeholders, including the Egyptian Air Force, had been positive. The early start of re-signing activity for the next edition also points to strong exhibitor interest in returning.
The 2026 show featured a broad mix of international aerospace and defense players. Turkish companies including Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) and ASELSAN were among the exhibitors, while the United States was represented with platforms including the C-130 Hercules and F-16. Russian equipment and technologies were also showcased, underlining the event’s broad international reach.
For Türkiye, Bridge Exhibitions is looking to build on this presence. Barthelot said the organizers hope to see greater Turkish participation at the next edition and are interested in working with the Turkish Ministry of Defense and through government-to-government channels to bring more Turkish companies to El Alamein.
The organizers and Egyptian Air Force are already looking beyond the second edition, with plans to expand both the exhibition area and static aircraft display.
The ambition is to bring in more platforms, exhibitors and international participants, further establishing El Alamein as a major regional venue for aerospace and defense engagement.
The growth between the first and second editions suggests that the event is already becoming an increasingly important platform for Egypt to connect its defense and aerospace market with international industry — while giving global companies access to customers and partners across the wider region.