XPONENTIAL Europe – one of the most important trade fairs for unmanned systems and autonomous technologies – took place in Düsseldorf from 18 to 20 February 2025. AIRlabs Austria was present as an exhibitor and engaged in the international exchange on the latest developments in the drone and robotics industry. The Austrian drone community was also strongly represented with Riegl Laser Measurement Systems GmbH, Drone Rescue Systems and AIRlabs Austria. Together, the representatives from Austria presented their innovative solutions and actively participated in expert talks and professional discussions exploring trends, challenges and future prospects for the industry.

Experience innovation up close

XPONENTIAL Europe once again demonstrated the innovative power that characterises the industry. Whether new drive systems, advanced sensor technology or pioneering software solutions – the exhibits and live demonstrations were impressive and conveyed a tangible picture of the future of autonomous systems. It was particularly exciting to see how technological boundaries are constantly being pushed, as innovation knows no rigid boundaries in the minds of developers. Thinking outside the box creates the basis for revolutionary developments – this became clear once again at this trade fair.

Networking with impact

A key aim of our participation was to intensify dialogue with partners, research institutions and companies. Not only were many new contacts made, but existing collaborations were also revitalised. The direct dialogue with developers, manufacturers and authorities showed us where the biggest challenges and potentials in the industry lie. In particular, the topics of regulation, integration into airspace and new fields of application for drones were repeatedly the focus of exciting discussions.

Voices from the AIRlabs team

Our technical project manager Kristof Gombas, who accompanied the XPONENTIAL Europe for AIRlabs, summarises the impressions aptly: ‘XPONENTIAL Europe 2025 was an excellent platform to experience technological developments up close and feel the progress of the industry. It was particularly exciting to see how close research is to the implementation of new solutions and how much international collaboration drives the innovation process.’

A big thank you

Special thanks go to UAV DACH e.V., which gave us this opportunity and actively supported us both in front of and behind the scenes. Without this strong community, such an exchange would not be possible on this scale.

We are convinced that XPONENTIAL Europe has paid off for us – and that’s why we are certain that we will be back in 2026!