General Aviation mixes with jets and military at burgeoning Berlin Show

BERLIN'S biannual air show, called ILA2006, is rapidly becoming Europe's most important major event for all sides of the aviation industry, from the airline business to military jets and helicopters down to all levels of General Aviation. There were 1014 exhibitors from 42 countries, displaying 300+ aircraft.

Held in May at Berlin-Schšnefeld Airport, ILA2006 saw east and west Europe mix with big business from the US and a host of Far and Middle East luminaries.

Among the big GA stories to break was the announcement by engine manufacturer Thielert that not only has it acquired US engine company Superior - make of many replacement parts for Lycoming and Continental engines as well as its own uncertified units - but that it was also expanding its range of turbocharged aero-diesels.

Thielert's new Centurion 3.2 will generate 230bhp and closes the gap in the output class between the successful 135hp Centurion 1.7, used in the Diamond DA40 TDI among others, and the 350hp Centurion 4.0 V8. The new engine is aimed at Cessna's 182 workhorse and expected to be ready for certification in late 2007.

Approvals are also being sought for the Centurion 4.0 to be retro-fitted into more aircraft such as the Cessna 206 Stationair single, and 414 and 421 twins.

"We are pursuing our growth strategy by consistently expanding our product range," said Frank Thielert, CEO and Founder of the company. "The acquisition of Superior Air Parts saw us win new customers in General Aviation. New engines and engine integrations will enable us in future to cover the entire spectrum of piston aircraft engine technology."

Among the other highlights at ILA: