Paris Air Show - What to Expect at the World’s Biggest Aviation Event

The Paris Air Show, held at Le Bourget Airport, is  where new aircraft are revealed, major aerospace deals are signed, and some of the world’s most advanced flying machines take to the skies.

Here's what to expect from one of France’s most high-powered events.

Where and When

The Paris Air Show (officially known as the Salon International de l’Aéronautique et de l’Espace) takes place at Paris-Le Bourget Airport, roughly 30 minutes from the city centre by car or public transport. The next edition is scheduled from Monday June 16th-22nd, with the first 4 days reserved for trade professionals and the final 3 days, Friday through Sunday, open to the general public.

Founded in 1909, it’s the oldest and largest air show in the world, and it continues to set the pace for aviation and aerospace technology.

What You’ll See

More than 2,000 exhibitors from around the world come to showcase the latest in commercial aviation, military hardware, unmanned systems, satellites, space exploration tech, and the emerging field of sustainable air travel.

The public show days are anchored by the daily flying displays, which include aerobatic manoeuvres by military jets, commercial airliners showing off agility you wouldn’t expect from planes that carry 300 passengers, and the occasional surprise guest, such as stealth fighters, cargo giants, or prototype electric aircraft. The Airbus A350, Boeing 777X, Dassault Rafale, and Patrouille de France (the French Air Force’s precision aerobatic team) are frequent headliners.

On the ground, expect aircrafts parked across the tarmac, some open for walk-throughs, others purely for show.

What's New

The Paris Air Show also showcases what’s coming next. This is where hydrogen-powered aircraft prototypes are revealed, urban air mobility vehicles (yes, flying taxis) are tested, and space companies pitch the next era of orbital exploration.

Major manufacturers, Airbus, Boeing, Embraer, Dassault, Lockheed Martin, use the show to unveil new models and sign deals. 

For the general public, many of these tech displays are hands-on. Interactive pavilions allow you to test virtual cockpit simulators, step inside 3D printed fuselage sections, and speak directly to engineers, astronauts, and designers.

Tips for Visitors

• Arrive early: Security is tight and lines can be long. Get there at opening time if you want a good spot for the flight displays.

• Bring ear protection: Jet engines at full speed are no joke. If you're bringing kids, earmuffs are a must.

• Plan your route: The showground is huge. Check the programme ahead of time to prioritise flying displays, talks, and exhibitions.

• Dress for weather: Most of the event is outdoors, and June in Paris can swing from sun to rain.

How to Get There

From central Paris, you can reach Le Bourget by RER B train to Le Bourget station, followed by a shuttle bus to the airport grounds. Taxis and rideshares are also widely available, but traffic near the site can be intense, especially on public days.

Flying in from Ireland? Aer Lingus offers direct flights from Dublin to Paris Charles de Gaulle, with multiple daily departures. From CDG, Le Bourget is just a 20-minute drive, close enough to catch a morning flight and be at the show by lunch.