AAD2026: Three Conferences in Three Days as Africa’s Aerospace and Defence Showcase Returns

Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2026 is set to bring together the aerospace, defence, aviation and security industries at Air Force Base Waterkloof in Centurion, Gauteng, from 16 to 20 September 2026.

The biennial event combines a major international trade exhibition with a public air show, making AAD one of the key events on the African aviation and defence calendar.

Three days of conferences

One of the major features of AAD2026 will be its three-day conference programme, running from 16 to 18 September.

The programme will focus on three major themes:

• 16 September – The Future of Warfare
• 17 September – African Defence Industry Showcase
• 18 September – Commercial & Military Aviation

The conference will examine subjects including artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, drones, electronic warfare, defence industry development and the future of commercial and military aviation in Africa.

The organisers describe the conference as a platform bringing together military leaders, government officials, defence industry executives, researchers and technology specialists to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Africa's defence and security sectors.

Trade exhibition and public air show

AAD2026 will combine its industry-focused trade exhibition and conference programme with a public air show.

The public air show takes place on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September 2026, with visitors able to experience aircraft displays, aerobatic performances, parachute demonstrations, mobility demonstrations and static displays from the aviation and defence industries.

The organisers are also planning activities aimed at younger visitors, including a dedicated Youth Development Programme with interactive aviation and educational activities.

Public air show tickets

Tickets for the AAD2026 public air show are available now.

🎟️ GET YOUR AAD2026 TICKETS HERE

Visitors planning to attend are encouraged to check the official visitor information and event regulations before travelling. Among the restrictions, visitors may not bring firearms, knives, glass bottles, pets, gazebos, umbrellas or their own alcohol onto the AFB Waterkloof premises.

AAD2026 at a glance

📅 Event: Africa Aerospace and Defence 2026

📍 Venue: Air Force Base Waterkloof, Centurion, Gauteng

📅 Trade & Conference: 16–18 September 2026

📅 Public Air Show: 19–20 September 2026

✈️ Focus: Aerospace, aviation, defence and security

🎟️ Public tickets: Buy AAD2026 tickets

For aviation enthusiasts, AAD2026 promises a combination of international aerospace and defence technology, industry networking, conference discussions and a spectacular weekend of flying displays.

Aviation Central will continue to bring you AAD2026 news, updates and airshow information as the event approaches.