Airbus will showcase a wide variety of innovative technologies, products and services, from market-leading commercial and military aircraft to helicopters and satellite systems, at the Saudi International Airshow which runs from 12-14 March 2019 at Al Thumamah Airport in Riyadh. As one of the largest aerospace markets in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia has built an impressive aerospace sector earmarked as a key component and enabler of the country's economic development and diversification plan. Airbus avidly supports this move and has initiated a number of strategic partnerships in the country that have contributed to the development of the industry by providing expertise, services and products which satisfies the strategic objectives of its partners in an increasingly competitive market. During the show, Airbus will display a model of the A330neo — the latest addition to the leading Airbus wide-body aircraft family featuring advanced materials, new optimized wings, composite Sharklets and highly efficient engines. Emirates is set to showcase its flagship Airbus A380 at the airshow, giving visitors the opportunity to tour the double-decker and see its award-winning products across all classes, including Emirates' refreshed OnBoard Lounge. Meanwhile, Saudia, the KSA's national carrier, will showcase its Airbus A320, the world's most popular single-aisle aircraft. Airbus Helicopters will display a mock-up of the H160, the innovative medium range helicopter that is cleaner, quieter and takes a step forward in respect of the environment. The entire design was based on one overriding goal - to create added value for customers in terms of performance, economic competitiveness, safety and comfort. Airbus Defense and Space will display a model of the A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT), the most modern aircraft for military services' in-flight refueling and airlift requirements. The A330 MRTT has been ordered by 12 nations including Saudi Arabia and the UAE. As of today, 35 aircraft have been delivered. A mockup of the A400M, the most versatile airlifter currently available, will be displayed at the Airbus booth for visitors to see how it responds to the highly varied needs of world Air Forces and other organizations. Finally, Airbus will also display a mockup of the OneWeb satellite which seeks to close the technological gap between the developed and developing worlds by providing broadband internet access across the globe. — SG
