Picture credits: X (Aero India)
Bengaluru: The highly anticipated Aero India 2025 is set to take place from February 10 to 14 at the Air Force Station in Yelahanka, Bengaluru. Recognized as Asia’s largest aerospace and defense exhibition, the 15th edition of this biennial event will bring together global leaders, modern military technology, and strategic defense discussions.
This year’s theme, “The Runway to a Billion Opportunities” reflects India’s growing aerospace capabilities, focus on self-reliance, and ambitions to strengthen international defense partnerships. Hosted by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Defence Exhibition Organisation (DEO), the event will serve as a key platform for showcasing advancements in military aviation, defense technology, and civil aerospace innovations.
A Grand Spectacle of Aviation Excellence
Aero India 2025 is structured into two key segments:
Business Days (February 10-12): Reserved for industry professionals, this period will facilitate high-profile B2B meetings, global defense collaborations, and strategic discussions on aerospace manufacturing and defense investments.
Public Days (February 13-14): Aviation enthusiasts and the general public will witness spectacular aerobatic displays, aircraft showcases, and interactive exhibitions.
The event will feature live demonstrations of next-generation fighter jets, drones, and military helicopters, along with static displays of aircraft from major global defense manufacturers.
Lockheed Martin F-21: Picture credits: X (@gsdnlive)
Key Events and Conferences
Aero India 2025 will host multiple high-profile summits, including:
1. Defence Ministers’ Conclave – “BRIDGE”
Focusing on “Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement,” this summit will bring together global defense ministers to discuss security cooperation, military technology advancements, and emerging threats.
2. CEOs’ Round Table
This closed-door strategic meeting will feature top executives from leading aerospace Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Indian defense firms, and international defense delegations. The discussion will revolve around investment opportunities, military procurement, and India’s role in the global aerospace supply chain.
3. iDEX Pavilion – Innovation Hub
A dedicated pavilion will showcase state-of-the-art defense innovations by Indian startups under the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiative. The exhibit will highlight next-gen UAVs, AI-driven combat systems, and indigenous defense technologies developed by emerging Indian enterprises.
International Participation and Exhibitions
Aero India 2025 will feature over 800 exhibits from more than 15 countries, including major players from the U.S., Russia, France, Israel, the UK, and India. The exhibition will feature:
Embraer C-390 Millennium: Picture credits : X (@ReviewVayu)
Aircraft Manufacturers
Leading global and Indian aircraft manufacturers will showcase their latest innovations. Boeing, Airbus, Dassault Aviation, and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) are among the confirmed or expected participants. HAL will prominently feature its indigenous platforms, including the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) and Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH). Additionally, manufacturers of business jets and regional aircraft may also present their latest models.
Engine Manufacturers
Top aerospace engine manufacturers are expected to participate, including CFM International, Pratt & Whitney, and Rolls-Royce. These companies will highlight their latest advancements in fuel efficiency, thrust performance, and next-generation propulsion technologies.
Despite initial speculation about a possible US Air Force withdrawal from Aero India 2025, official sources have confirmed that the US will participate in the event, scheduled for February 10-14 in Bengaluru.
The US will send two F-16 and two F-35 fighter jets for a static display, but unlike in 2023, they will not participate in the aerial demonstrations at Yelahanka Air Force Station. This marks a change in the US’s approach to the air show this year, following the Trump 2.0 administration taking office.
Air Show Rehearsals and Flight Disruptions
Air show rehearsals for Aero India 2025 are currently underway, resulting in temporary airspace closures over Bengaluru and impacting commercial flight operations at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA).
According to KIA’s official press release, the airspace closures will follow this schedule:
February 5, 6, and 8: 9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon and 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
February 7 and 9: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM, with an additional closure on February 7 from 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
February 10: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
February 11 and 12: 12:00 Noon – 2:30 PM
February 13 and 14: 9:30 AM – 12:00 Noon and 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Ticketing Information for Aero India 2025
Aero India 2025 offers three pass categories:
Business Pass: Ideal for industry professionals, this pass grants access to exhibition halls, conferences, and networking events. Priced at ₹5,000 for Indian nationals and USD 150 for foreign nationals.
General Visitor Pass: Perfect for aviation enthusiasts, this pass provides access to static displays, exhibitions, and air shows. Priced at ₹2,500 for Indian nationals and USD 50 for foreign nationals.
ADVA (Air Display Viewing Area) Pass: Offers an exclusive viewing area for air displays. Priced at ₹1,000 for Indian nationals and USD 50 for foreign nationals.
How to Register for Aero India 2025
1. Visit the official website: https://www.aeroindia.gov.in/
2. Click on “Register” and select the relevant pass type.
3. Fill out the registration form with personal details.
4. Proceed with payment using the available online options.
5. Receive confirmation via email with your entry pass details.
The exhibition will be open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, with air shows scheduled in the morning and afternoon.
Visitors are allowed to bring professional cameras and DSLRs, but drones are strictly prohibited.
Exhibitors and business delegates must wear formal attire (lounge suit, national dress, or service uniform).
For a complete list of FAQs, visit: www.aeroindia.gov.in/faq
A Defining Moment for India’s Aerospace Sector
Aero India 2025 is set to be a defining event in global defense and aerospace, reinforcing India’s aspirations to become a leading force in aviation technology and military innovation.
With a focus on indigenous defense production, foreign collaboration, and next-generation technologies, the event will not only showcase India’s advancements but also serve as a strategic platform for global aerospace partnerships.
Despite challenges such as flight disruptions and the U.S. military wiThe event will highlight India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) vision, while shaping the future of aviation and defense on a global scale.
For more details, visit https://www.aeroindia.gov.in/
Stay tuned to Aviation Today for aviation related news.
