Gallery: Some Of The Firsts At Aero Friedrichshafen

General Aviation Manufacturers Association Director for European Safety and Sustainability Development Cate Brancart moderated a panel of women aviators and business executives to begin Aero Friedrichshafen media day.

Swiss manufacturer Pilatus debuted the PC-12 Pro with new Garmin G3000 Prime flight deck and Autoland capability. Experimental Test Pilot Marc Michel flew the aircraft to Friedrichshafen from Pilatus’ facility at Buochs Airport, Switzerland.

CEO Rolf Stuber describes the Smartflyer SFX1 hybrid-electric aircraft, making its first trade show appearance. Rolled out Nov. 6, 2024 in Grenchen, Switzerland, the prototype aircraft is expected to make its first flight this year.

Germany’s MT-Propeller certified this Piper Meridian with new PT6A-135A engine and five-bladed propeller. The modification reduces certified outside noise to 66.9 dB(A) from the original 74.9 dB(A).

A Bombardier Challenger 604 is parked in front of the Business Aviation Dome, a new feature at Aero Friedrichshafen dedicated to business aviation. Historically a general aviation trade show, the event is hosting 30 business aircraft.

Fifteen companies involved in business aviation are exhibiting in the glass-covered Business Aviation Dome, while others are displaying their wares in two of the 12 halls at Aero Friedrichshafen.