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38th Airexpo
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As every year, the ISAE-SUPAERO Foundation supported the airshow once again in 2024. This 38th edition attracted almost 16,000 spectators, who were delighted with the show under a brilliant sun.
A look back at the day!
The main objective of the Airexpo 2024 project was to offer a spectacular and accessible aeronautical event, combining dynamic aerial demonstrations and a high-quality static display. The initiative continues a 38-year-old tradition of collaboration between Toulouse’s leading aeronautical schools (ENAC and ISAE-SUPAERO). Airexpo aims to promote aeronautics to the general public.
This is an ambitious student project, where students are responsible for the entire organization: logistics, partnerships, communication and programming. The project illustrates the synergy between academic knowledge and the operational requirements of a large-scale event.
The 2024 edition took place on May 11, 2024 at the Muret-Lherm airfield in bright sunshine, attracting a total of 16,000 spectators, including 400 VIPs and 450 Friends of Airexpo. Aerial demonstrations took place from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., with highlights including performances by the Patrouille de France and the Rafale Solo Display.
Click here to watch the after-movie of the event.
Objectives achieved:
- Logistical and operational success: the smooth flow of traffic and good preparation with local authorities were highlighted as major strengths.
- Air show quality: a rich program including flight demonstrations (e.g. A321 XLR, Rafale) and a variety of static displays (EC-135 helicopters, historic aircraft such as the Nieuport 17).
- Partner commitment: 24 major companies and institutions contributed, reinforcing the visibility and sustainability of the event.
Challenges :
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Limited sound infrastructure: no public address system in certain areas of the site.
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Managing climatic conditions: the heat led to a number of ailments, aggravated by a lack of water points.
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Prolonged waiting in the excavation area, which had an impact on the spectators’ experience.
Key figures and impact
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Participants involved: around 300 students from partner schools actively contributed to the organization (organizer and volunteers on the day).
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Audience reached: 16,000 spectators, reflecting an undeniable popular success.
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A wide range of activities: helicopter rides, static and dynamic entertainment, partner stands.
Ronan Rey’s testimonial
Airshow vice-president
Thomas was the point of contact for the Airexpo project with the Foundation. The testimony in this article is his own.
Looking back, Airexpo 2024 was a major success, consolidating its position as one of the region’s most eagerly awaited air events. The high number of spectators this year resulted in a profit that made up for past losses. However, the lessons learned from the challenges encountered will enable us to optimize future editions to offer an even smoother and more enjoyable experience to the public.
Any final words?
Thank you for keeping this event going with ever-increasing intensity.
