Dubai 2001 official delegations programme: show's biggest yet

Airlines on the delegations invite list include a mix of passenger and cargo carriers.

"We have expanded the breadth of this programme, which has always been a key Dubai air show benefit, as it enables exhibitors to meet decision-makers it would otherwise be intensely difficult to access," said HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Department of Civil Aviation, Government of Dubai and Chairman of the Emirates Group.

The Dubai air show delegations programme is jointly co-ordinated by the Department of Civil Aviation, the UAE Ministry of Defence and the exhibition's organisers Fairs and Exhibitions.

"We are working very closely to ensure that these very high profile delegations will be able to select exhibitors they wish to meet and with official escorts facilitating these arrangements, will be able to make the best use of their time at the show," said HH Sheikh Ahmed.

Dubai 2001, the 7th international aerospace exhibition, will take place from November 4-8. At a meeting earlier this week of the airshow's Supreme Committee, HH Sheikh Ahmed said despite the tragic events of the past week, the show will go ahead.

"It is very much business as usual. In the past week we have had one exhibitor withdrawing from the show, but at the same time, have just received verbal confirmation from a new USA exhibitor that it wants to take part, as well as a stand space expansion request from a leading Russian exhibitor."

To date, eight national pavilions have been confirmed for the air show, including the first time participation by an official Swedish mission, mounted by the Swedish Civil Aviation Group (SCAG). Over 500 exhibitors from 33 countries are due to take part.