Bournemouth Airport and its dedicated cargo division Cargo First have played a critical role in staging aircraft for this year’s Farnborough International Airshow which starts today. [July 20]

The airport has been supporting GE Aerospace, a global leader in aerospace propulsion, services and systems, with a major presence at the show by hosting the company’s 747-400 Flying Test Bed at Bournemouth and its groundbreaking hybrid-electric Saab 340B.

The 747 Flying Test Bed is designed to put new engine models to the test and is equipped with some of the most advanced testing technology in the aviation industry. Usually based out of Victorville Airport near Los Angeles, the aircraft will form part of the static display at Farnborough.

The modified Saab 340B regional airliner is part of GE Aerospace’s collaboration with NASA to demonstrate flight readiness of hybrid electric propulsion technology for single-aisle aircraft. Technologies were developed through NASA’s Electrified Powertrain Flight Demonstration project.

The Saab 340B is scheduled to fly daily at Farnborough having undergone preparation at Bournemouth Airport and is expected to be a major attraction at the show.

Rob Johnson, Head of Development at Bournemouth Airport, said: “It’s been a great honour for us to host these cutting-edge research aircraft in preparation for the Farnborough International Airshow.

“GE Aerospace was seeking an airport that could provide the space, facilities and operational flexibility needed to support their preparation activity and we were delighted to assist. It demonstrates the capability of both Bournemouth Airport and Cargo First to support complex aviation operations, including specialist airfreight requirements, efficiently and reliably.”

Over the past 18 months, Bournemouth Airport has completed a major programme of airside investment designed to support the increasing demands of the air cargo sector.

The airport has invested approximately £10 million in new cargo facilities including new apron space capable of accommodating up to three ICAO Code E aircraft simultaneously, an expanded customs-bonded warehouse and improved landside road infrastructure, creating additional capacity and flexibility.