The launch of up to 10 new products and the opportunity for aviation companies to close millions in sales are the two main outcomes expected at a Waikato-based aviation showcase planned for October.

 NZ Flair 2011, to be held at Te Kowhai Airfield near Hamilton from October 13 to 15, will showcase a wide range of New Zealand products and services and innovation within the burgeoning aviation sector.

 Waikato Aviation Industry Cluster and NZ Flair 2011 organiser Shaun Mitchell, said the event will bring New Zealand’s “under the radar” aviation industry into the international spotlight.

 “NZ Flair 2011 will leverage off the extra profile of New Zealand during the Rugby World Cup and is a real opportunity for growth, development and innovation of our industry,” Shaun said.

 A New Zealand Trade and Enterprise report from June 2010 showed the New Zealand aviation sector brought an estimated $9.7 billion into the economy in 2009, with $5.9 billion from domestic activities and $3.8 billion from export activities.

 The New Horizons report shows the industry is expected to grow to $12.6 billion by 2015 with experts predicting Waikato will net a “significant slice” of the growth.

 Waikato economic development leader Sandra Perry, of Opportunity Hamilton, said NZ Flair 2011 was a “coming out” for New Zealand’s multi-billion dollar aviation industry.

 “This will attract thousands of visitors and key aviation business people and potential investors from around the world. It’s a real chance for these businesses to get global attention,” Sandra said.

 NZ Flair 2011 is modelled on AirVenture Oshkosh, a United States aviation event attracting 500,000 visitors from more than 60 countries.

 “It is a combination of exhibitors, demonstrations and air displays. It will incorporate everything aviation, from manufacturing and design to space exploration and pilot training,” Shaun said.

 More than 70 exhibitors will showcase products and services including luxury aircraft fit outs, World War I and II replicas, new developments in micro lights and aircraft, manufacturers and suppliers, repair and overhaul and pilot training.

 Guest speakers for NZ Flair 2011 seminars include international aviation specialists Jim McCoy and Glenn Martin, developer of the Martin Jet Pack.

 Exhibitors will have the chance to pitch their innovations to potential investors at pitch and mingle sessions.

 The event is also a chance to showcase the aviation cluster’s $2 million state-of-the-art paint facility, being built nearby at Hamilton International Airport.