Director Joe Nguyễn leads Washington’s Paris Air Show delegation

Aerospace, Growth & Expansion, Made In Washington, Trade Shows & Trade Missions

Largest delegation ever represents $71B state-of-the-art aerospace and aviation sector

The vibe at the 2025 Paris Air Show was all about transforming what was once considered alternate universe storytelling into reality.

Held from June 16-22, this biennial event is the largest exhibition in the aerospace industry, and has served as a platform for announcing new products, services, partnerships and expansion plans for more than a century. Washington was represented by 78 delegates from 30 industry partners – the state’s largest ever. These industry partners work for dozens of companies, groups and economic development and government agencies.

The Commerce delegation showcased an array of aerospace industry innovations that were once the stuff of dreams. These included transorbital spacecraft, fluid propulsion systems for vertical take-off, integrated modular avionics incorporating next generation Detect and Avoid (DAA) systems – and more.

It's in our DNA

“Historic innovation is in Washington’s DNA,” said Commerce Director Joe Nguyễn, who led the delegation. “Our state’s aerospace and aviation manufacturers are transforming what used to be considered science fiction into a new age of jet and space travel reflecting state-of-the-art scientific innovation.”

Washington leads the way in sustainable aviation

On the show’s first day, Director Nguyễn joined a panel discussion on decarbonization of Washington aviation fuels to benefit industry sustainability. The panel, presented by Commerce, brought together Washington industry leaders to discuss innovations in sustainable aviation.

Sustainable aviation is just one of the efforts undertaken by Washington’s $71 billion industry, which continues to build on a legacy of creating and nurturing some of the world’s most well-known brands.

It’s why aerospace companies – and other businesses interested in leading the way on innovation – choose Washington. The state’s technology-rich supercluster makes it one of the most competitive business environments for the manufacture of major aerospace structures and final assembly of aircraft, including top rankings for labor productivity, sales and exports and aerospace engineers.

The Washington delegation was comprised of industry manufacturers, engineers and consultant firms, all showcasing new-to-market products, innovative services and announcing plans to expand in Washington. The results strengthen communities, growing our economy by generating sales and increasing jobs.

The Choose Washington booth also hosted six economic development partners:

These regional partners joined the Washington delegation to showcase why Washington is a top destination for aerospace, defense and space companies. To learn more about the Washington delegation, visit the Paris Air Show delegation landing page at Choose Washington State.