Georgia seeks exhibitors for top world air show

ATLANTA, June 19, 2009 – The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) is seeking Georgia export companies and communities interested in joining its delegation to the Dubai Airshow 2009 November 15 – 19 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). To help Georgia companies capitalize on the event, GDEcD has created affordable event packages targeting those who would not otherwise be able to travel to the Dubai Airshow.
'By teaming up with the state, Georgia companies have an outstanding and affordable opportunity to expand their presence and sales to critical world markets,' said Heidi Green, deputy commissioner for global commerce at GDEcD. 'We are providing a unique targeted marketing strategy that will give added exposure and value to their efforts at the show.'

The biennial Dubai Airshow is the largest aviation event in the world's fastest-growing region. In 2007, the show marked its 10th anniversary and attracted more than 850 exhibitors, 45,000 trade visitors, 140 aircraft and record-breaking orders of $155.5 billion. A major trader with the UAE, Georgia was ranked ninth in the U.S in exports to the UAE, totaling $426 million in 2008.

'Aventure has been active in the Middle East aviation arena for eight years now and has established working relationships with the region's airlines and aviation organizations.  Participating in the Dubai Air Show is an absolute must for us," said Zaheer Faruqi, president of Aventure International Aviation of Peachtree City. "Dubai is a perfect location for such an event, as it is not only recognized as the business hub for the Middle East, but also as the premier aerospace industry hub on a global level.'

Aerospace is one of the state's leading strategic industries. Georgia is home to more than 200 aerospace and aviation businesses, including industry giants like Delta Air Lines, Gulfstream Aerospace, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Cessna and Northrop Grumman.

GDEcD has developed an affordable participants' exhibitor package for small- to medium-sized companies and communities that are working with limited marketing budgets. The final deadline for registration is August 15, 2009.

For complete details or to register for the trade mission, contact Kathy Oxford, senior trade manager, at 678-640-4351 or [email protected]. For more information, please visit Governor's Mission to Dubai Air Show (PDF) or our International News & Events page.