BENGALURU: For first-time visitors, Aero India 2017 is an exhilarating experience. But regulars at the show have had mixed feelings regarding the event. Compared to previous editions, regular visitors say there has been a decrease in a number of aircraft displayed and exhibitors.
Despite the “terrific atmosphere”, some international exhibitors complained of a lack of significant investment or business opportunities. However, many in the armed forces feel the success of a show, such as Aero India, depends on the existing market for defence products. Experts believe that the brief lull at the expo, reflected the mood of the current Indian market, as armed forces recently completed some acquisitions.
Speaking to Express, Maksimov Alexey, head o the design department, Testpribor, Russia, said that the rates for the stalls were too expensive. He complained that they were not getting any deals for the investment they made at the show. “However, the show looks better than 2013 edition. The only benefit is that we have been able to meet defence manufacturers from across the globe,” he said.
S Madhukar, Deputy General Manager, Ace Manufacturing Systems Ltd, felt otherwise. “I felt there was an improvement in the facilities provided. Our company is expecting some business from this event and there has been some booth traffic too,” he added. However, he felt there was a 20 percent reduction in the number of startups participating in the event, he said.
Murali Varadharajan, an employee of Bharat Electronics Ltd, said, “I think the last edition of Aero India was better. It had more aircraft in the sky.”