F-AIR COLOMBIA: 25,000 Daily Visitors Expected at the 12th International Aeronautics Fair
The 12th International Aeronautics and Space Fair in Colombia (F‑AIR) will take place July 9–13, 2025, organized by the Colombian Aerospace Force with support from the Civil Aviation Authority and regional authorities.
The event—featuring delegations from approximately 15 countries—aims to showcase cutting-edge technologies for both civil and military aviation.
One of the main highlights will be the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles, including a drone show planned as part of the program. Recent editions have strengthened this emphasis, solidifying the event’s role as a tech showcase for the aerospace sector.
Logistics and security pose significant challenges for the organizers, with up to 25,000 visitors per day expected. This requires adjustments to airport operations and coordinated planning among public and private entities. The security protocols include multiple protection levels and involve various security forces.
In an interview with Aviacionline, Col. Andrés Felipe Vargas, Director of F‑AIR Colombia, and Col. Juan José López Duque, Director of Operations, provided additional insights:
Aviacionline: What is the most complex logistical challenge of organizing an event like this?
Col. López: “F‑AIR entails challenges from every angle. First is maintaining the event’s high profile in aviation. Making it attractive and sustaining that position requires long-term planning. Space allocation involves selling, requesting, and reserving exhibition areas within an active commercial airport, adjacent to a military base. Coordination for demonstrations and exhibitors begins almost immediately after the previous fair ends. We manage schedules, logistics, overarching planning, and event security. With an anticipated daily turnout of 25,000 people, mobility management is also vital.”
The Civil Aviation Authority notes that the fair serves to strengthen aviation in Colombia amid increasing air traffic and sector expectations. Alongside exhibitions, forums will explore investment opportunities in Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO), attracting companies to set up in Colombia.
Aviacionline: Col. Vargas, as Aerocivil’s first director leading the fair, what unique challenges have you encountered?
Col. Vargas: “Despite this being the 12th edition, organizing it remains highly demanding. The airport’s activity has grown significantly since the first edition, making interruptions caused by the fair more complicated. Moreover, attendees now expect continuous improvements in their experience, adding complexity. These challenges also represent opportunities—we recognize the fair’s regional importance.”
Aviacionline: What are the projections for F‑AIR COLOMBIA 2025 regarding foreign direct investment and strengthening of MRO capabilities? What new incentives or business models are expected?
Col. Vargas: “Colombia has become a focal point for investors in engine overhaul and structural maintenance. MRO is a core part of our academic agenda, covering four strategic areas: space (led by the Aerospace Force), unmanned aviation, MRO, and another key focus supported by Aerocivil. Major companies are already preparing investments—MRO Holdings, for example, has made a significant commitment and is expected to announce it officially during the fair. Airlines like LATAM and Avianca have been invited to participate, and the academic agenda will focus on innovation, operational safety, and market expansion in Latin America.”
Aviacionline: What specific security measures have been implemented for F‑AIR COLOMBIA 2025, for attendees and both air and ground displays?
Col. López: “We have developed comprehensive operational safety plans to ensure all exhibitions run smoothly. Real‑world low‑altitude maneuvers require precise integration. Our risk management plan includes multiple entities ready to respond preventively in all scenarios. A third security ring ensures layered protection, involving the Public Force, Police, Army, and Aerospace Force, to safeguard both physical and operational security. In just thirteen days, we’re excited to light up the skies over Antioquia with aerial displays and welcome aviation enthusiasts. Among the surprises: Colombia’s first 500‑drone show, participation from the Brazilian Air Force with two Gripen jets, and more. We can’t wait to make this the best fair yet—and we look forward to seeing you there!”
Corresponsal de Prensa de Colombia, Centroamérica y el Caribe. Escribo sobre aviones y música, creo contenido digital en redes y capturo cuanto avión se me cruce en el cielo o en la tierra.
Para comentar, debés estar registradoPor favor, iniciá sesión