AMDA Foundation has confirmed that the trade day attendances at the 2023 Australian International Airshow broke all previous records.
The trade days, which ran from Tuesday 28 February to Thursday 2 March, attracted 48,516 visitors, an increase of 24% over the last exposition held in 2019.
"From the first minute of this Avalon there was a dynamism in the exhibition halls and the sense that a lot of people were having some very productive conversations," AMDA Foundation CEO Justin Giddings said. "That has been backed up by the number of announcements from companies that are here and the feedback from the many exhibitors that have told us they have been consistently busy all week.
"The most pleasing thing has been a sense of optimism from industry and the desire to engage. Avalon was created to be a meeting hub, a catalyst for the sort of engagement that creates partnerships and ideas.
"This week felt like industry has direction and opportunities to pursue, that Australian companies are starting to feel like it is worth stepping forward and investing in capability."
AMDA Foundation released further data that showed a total of 798 exhibiting companies, which is 14% higher than 2019 and is the first time the exposition space has been completely sold out. There were also around 120 organisations that had to be placed on a wait list.
The number of official delegations also broke new ground, with 234 attending, a figure 50% higher than 2019.
"The strong presence of the Australian Defence Force along with our overseas colleagues from Japan, South Korea, the United States, Malaysia and other countries has created an international flavour for Avalon," Giddings said. "The fact that many have been here for a week means we have had the chance to experience some of their culture, as well as their aerial skill and professionalism."
"AVALON also had many distinguished visitors, including the Australian Minister For Defence Richard Marles, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton and the United States Ambassador to Australia, Caroline Kennedy.
"Their presence has underlined the event's importance in the national defence debate and international engagement."
AMDA Foundation is yet to release the public day figures, but anecdotal evidence suggests new marks will be set for the Friday to Sunday period as well.