Paris Airshow: Monday, June 16 — Day 1 Roundup

When we arrived, the first thing I did was check out the De Havilland Canada chalet. I was so impressed by the bright design that displayed our aircraft and logo on the many walls and in every meeting room. Additionally, there was a display of our aircraft models on the wall, which was pretty cool. Outside the chalet, the Twin Otter 300-G and DHC-6 Twin Otter Guardian were beautifully positioned in the sun.

I was smitten by the scale of the airshow, I did not know where to look at first. There are thousands of exhibitions. It felt like some sort of futuristic place with space rockets at the museum and all kinds of aircraft, drones and machines outside on the runway. I had a chance to quickly run through one of the halls to the Canadian booth. Melanie Joly was giving a speech and reaffirming the government’s support for our industry, closing with a remark: “Canada is not for sale, but we are OPEN FOR BUSINESS”. 

All of us gathered first thing in the morning to go over the plan for the day. Then the day took off at a very fast pace! Representatives from other companies were coming and going non-stop. I’m very proud of the team – everyone worked hard hosting over 40 meetings today at the chalet. Besides 
scheduled B2B meetings, there were a few big highlights that you may 
have seen mentioned in social media:
 

After the day at the chalet wrapped up, most of us headed to the Canadian Reception, where we had a chance to network and catch up in this beautiful historic building. Melanie Joly visited again and reinstated her support for our industry.

Our event organizing team were on their feet from early morning to late night to make sure everything is perfect, guests are checked in and taken care of throughout their time at the chalet. I’m so impressed by everyone’s hard work and stamina.

Stand by for an exciting Day 2 update coming tomorrow! I’m looking forward to exploring five expansive 
exhibition halls and endless outdoor displays, as well as attending the PropelHER 
event that DHC will be hosting at the chalet.
 

Olena Zagoskina — Roving Reporter, Paris Air Show 2025