Additive Manufacturing has been used in the aerospace industry for more than 30 years, and today all major aircraft and engine manufacturers have integrated the technology into their production processes. AM is also playing an increasingly important role in the construction of satellites and rockets in the aerospace sector.
The sky’s no limit
Additive Manufacturing (AM) holds major benefits for the aviation and aerospace manufacturing industry. From faster prototyping and shorter time to market across improved design flexibility, reduced material waste to lightweight construction and increased sustainability AM plays a growing part in the aerospace industry.
All the more reason to shine a spotlight on this dynamic application-driven industry with the diverse formats of the Formnext Industry Insights. Get inspired, stay informed, and be fully prepared when this key topic takes the stage at Formnext this November.
Whitepaper – Additive Manufacturing in aviation & aerospace
In our exclusive white paper "The sky’s (not) the limit”, we highlight the advantages of Additive Manufacturing for aviation and aerospace, especially the potential for cost reduction, material efficiency, and design freedom. We also examine the important certification processes for this industry and present application examples that illustrate the practical use of this technology.
We will provide you with in-depth insights in 6 chapters
- Introduction
- Advantages of AM in aerospace
- Materials and technologies
- Main applications at a glance
- Future prospects
- Checklist for a successful implementation
Formnext at AERO Friedrichshafen, 22 – 25 April 2026
At AERO 2026, Formnext will for the first time join forces with the AM providers – Airtech, Bosch, Formlabs, and Renishaw – to demonstrate how Additive Manufacturing accelerates development processes, expands design freedom, reduces material usage, and enables more productive as well as more sustainable solutions in general aviation.
Visit the joint booth “Additive Manufacturing by Formnext” in Foyer East, booth FO-102, or attend the technical presentations of our exhibitors as part of the stage program to gain practical insights and exchange with experts on the use of Additive Manufacturing in development, production, and MRO.
Fon Mag Special aviation & aerospace
Additive Manufacturing has long been an integral part of the aviation industry. Many components are already made using Additive Manufacturing, making aircraft lighter and engines more efficient. Find here the latest articles about AM in aviation from Formnext Magazine 01/2026.
Formnext Technology Talks – our new digital webinar series
Step beyond the trade show calendar with our engaging webinar series! Each session dives into a key focus topic, offering a fast-paced, insightful talk featuring the latest market trends, fresh industry insights, practical solutions, and direct interaction with leading experts.
Technology Talk aviation & aerospace
In the recording of our session on aerospace an aviation, you can look forward to a lineup of leading industry experts and engaging presentations on current developments and challenges:
- Christoph Hauck, Member of the Executive Board, toolcraft AG
Talk: Additive Manufacturing in aerospace – opportunities and challenges - Scott Sevcik, Director Advisory Services & Strategic Solutions, Wohlers Associates
Talk: Implications of AM in the aviation aftermarket - Maximilian Strixner, Senior Additive Manufacturing Engineer, The Exploration Company
Talk: Printing the future of space: Metal Additive Manufacturing for rocket engines
The session will be moderated by Davide Sher (Co-Founder & CEO, VoxelMatters), who will guide the discussion with up-to-date market data and thought-provoking questions.
Register now and get access to the recording of our Technology Talk aviation & aerospace.
Expert Insights from Formnext
At the Application Stage of Formmext, application examples from aviation and aerospace were presented and discussed. It is definitely worth “tuning in” again!
