Chengdu, country's 'aerospace capital'

The Farnborough International Airshow on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding with the Chengdu Hi-Tech Zone and EU Project Innovation Center to develop the Sichuan International Airshow. Under the MOU, Farnborough will provide consultancy services to create an aerospace trade exhibition and public airshow in Chengdu in western China.

With a specific focus on civil and commercial aerospace infrastructure, manufacturing, maintenance, repair, overhaul, and support services, the event will demonstrate how companies can become involved in the growing Chinese market.

Originally planned to take place in 2017, the show is now scheduled for September 2019 in order to coincide with the opening of the new Chengdu Tianfu International Airport.

Commenting during the One Belt One Sky conference at the Farnborough International Airshow, Commercial Director, Amanda Stainer, said: "The opportunity to host the Sichuan International Airshow in such a prime location in the heart of Chengdu will make the event even more attractive for international participants."

Fu Yonglin, vice-mayor of Chengdu, said: "Chengdu is already an established aerospace hub. The hi-tech zone and the Sichuan International Airshow will help establish Chengdu as China's aerospace capital. The Farnborough International Airshow has a reputation as a world class trade event and we are looking to working with the organizers to hosting our first show in 2019."