From April 10th to 12th, members of AS Munich, AS Dresden, and AS Aachen joined forces for a memorable journey to Friedrichshafen to attend the AERO Expo – Germany’s largest general aviation trade show. Over the course of three days, the students immersed themselves in the world of aviation, right in the birthplace of the iconic Zeppelin airships.
The trip kicked off with a guided tour of the Zeppelin hangar, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at the production of these legendary aircraft. We explored the unique semi-rigid design concept and gained a deeper understanding of the principles behind airship buoyancy. One of the highlights was witnessing the construction of a brand-new Zeppelin, set to be used as a flying advertisement for Europa Park. We also learned about Zeppelin’s partnership with Goodyear and were lucky enough to watch a Zeppelin come in for a graceful landing on the nearby airfield – a truly unforgettable sight.
The second day was entirely dedicated to the AERO Expo itself. We had the chance to engage with ultralight aircraft manufacturers, drone innovators, and engine developers. Interactive booths featured state-of-the-art flight simulation software, and the exhibition halls were filled with aviation-themed merchandise for enthusiasts of all ages. More importantly, the expo offered a unique platform to network with industry leaders and companies at the forefront of aviation technology. From exploring the sleek interiors of high-end business jets to exchanging ideas with pioneers of the future of flight, the opportunities for connection and inspiration were everywhere.
EUROAVIA was also present with its own exhibition stand, proudly representing our student community to fellow attendees and professionals. It was a fantastic chance to showcase who we are, what we do, and to attract interest from students and industry contacts alike.
The final day concluded with an awe-inspiring airshow. Renowned aerobatic pilots demonstrated breathtaking maneuvers, including precision formation flying and spectacular stunts. Highlights included performances by the famous Red Bull Blanix Team and a range of thrilling aerial displays that had something for everyone.
All in all, the trip to AERO Friedrichshafen was not only informative and inspiring but also brought our EUROAVIA chapters closer together. We returned home with new ideas, new contacts, and unforgettable memories of a weekend spent among the giants of aviation.
AS Munich