As part of the increasing spread of the coronavirus the two internationally renowned trade fairs, Innovation and Leadership in Aerospace, or ILA for short, which was originally scheduled to take place from 13 to 17 May 2020, and the Farnborough International Airshow, which was scheduled to take place from 20 to 24 July 2020, had to be cancelled.

The reasons for the cancellations were explained in official press releases.

Volker Thum, Chief Executive of the BDLI, explained: "It is clear to us that we are taking responsibility for the exhibitors, partners and visitors at the ILA 2020. We would like to thank all those who were involved in the preparations for the ILA very much for their dedicated work over the past few months. Our high-tech industry is of strategic importance for our country. The crisis is hitting us hard, and more than ever we therefore need to close ranks with politicians and all our stakeholders".

Dr. Christian Göke, Chairman of the Board of Management of Messe Berlin GmbH: "It is with a heavy heart that we look forward to the cancellation of the ILA Berlin 2020, which has now become necessary. Messe Berlin has been pointing out for weeks that the decision to hold or cancel major events can currently only be made on the basis of the recommendation or instruction of the relevant authorities. Only these authorities have all the necessary information and expertise to draw the right conclusions".

The Farnborough International Board of Directors explained: "It is with great regret that we announce the Farnborough International Airshow 2020, due to take place in July, is cancelled. After very careful consideration, the unprecedented impact of the global Coronavirus pandemic has forced this decision in the interests of the health and safety of our exhibitors, visitors, contractors and staff. This decision was reached taking into consideration several major factors surrounding the outbreak of COVID-19, all of which we have concluded, make it impossible for us to create and host the Airshow this July. We understand this news will be an incredible disappointment to all across the international aerospace industry, not to mention our important exhibitors, suppliers and visitors. We at Farnborough International share your disappointment that we are unable to present the Airshow as planned, but rest assured, we are determined to continue to work together and will ensure the Farnborough International Airshow returns in 2022 better than ever."