BIAS 2024 drew over 57,000 visitors from 83 countries, 226 civil and military delegations, and featured participation from over 177 companies across three days, solidifying its reputation as one of the Middle East’s most prominent aviation events. This year’s airshow saw an impressive lineup of more than 125 aircraft, including fighter jets, drones, passenger planes, and cargo carriers, a remarkable 25% increase from the previous edition.
Among the highlights, the static display featured notable debuts such as the U.S. Department of Defense’s B-52H Stratofortress, which also operated fly pasts within the afternoon displays, and flydubai’s latest Boeing aircraft. Adding to the spectacle, the skies were alive with breathtaking aerobatic performances by renowned teams, including the Royal Bahraini Air Force F-16s, the Saudi Hawks, the Indian Air Force Sarang Helicopter Team, and Gulf Air’s cutting-edge Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.
A key highlight of BIAS 2024 was Valo Aviation’s announcement as Bahrain’s first business jet operator. Having recently received its Bahraini Air Operators Certificate (AOC), Valo Aviation plans to operate a fleet of 15 luxury jets from its base in Manama. This milestone positions Bahrain as a burgeoning hub for private aviation and luxury air travel in the region. Additionally, the airshow became a platform for transformative partnerships. Cybersecurity leader IronNet and tech innovator Asterion revealed a strategic collaboration to enhance aviation safety through AI-powered cybersecurity solutions and counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) technology, setting a new benchmark for protecting critical infrastructure.
Under the guidance of His Highness Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Supreme Organizing Committee, BIAS 2024 reflected Bahrain’s commitment to fostering innovation and advancing the aviation sector, not only in the Gulf, but within the international market. The event featured cutting-edge exhibitions, including a focus on sustainable aviation technology and the latest advancements in air traffic management systems.
BIAS is jointly organized by the Bahrain Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications and the Royal Bahraini Air Force, in collaboration with Farnborough International, the world-renowned organizer of aerospace and business events. The purpose-built airshow site at Sakhir Air Base offered an ideal venue for global businesses to forge partnerships, discuss new strategies and explore opportunities.
BIAS has evolved significantly since its inaugural event in 2010. Held biennially at Sakhir Air Base, the first show featured 40 fully fitted chalets, providing companies with private settings to host and entertain guests, a concept that sets BIAS apart from other airshows. Over the years, BIAS has expanded its offerings, including converting an aircraft hangar into the exhibition hall in 2016 to accommodate more companies, attract SMEs and develop country pavilions to increase the show’s internationality. The 2022 edition welcomed over 46,000 visitors, 186 participating companies, and 222 delegations from 59 countries, with deals amounting to $1.85 billion.
The 2024 edition continued to elevate Bahrain’s profile on the global stage, showcasing the Kingdom as a vital player in the aviation industry and a destination that combines rich heritage with cutting-edge progress.
