Temporary Structures and Relocatable Buildings

Guests of Thales had some of the best views of the runway and flying displays from a bespoke facility that took Neptunus’ technicians just three weeks to construct. The 1600 square metres Evolution building, erected on 13.6 metre tall legs, provided unobstructed views across the airfield.

The assignment was part of a two-show contract awarded to Northamptonshire-based Neptunus by airshow organisers Farnborough International Ltd (FIL). Thales Group is one of the biggest names in the aerospace and defence industry, providing electronic on-board equipment and ground-based systems to commercial aviation businesses and major air forces around the world.

Working very closely with Thales Group and its Exhibitions and Events team, Neptunus was responsible for the entire project  including the internal fit-out which involved ground-floor exhibition space, press accommodation, meeting rooms; a dining area for VIP guests on the first floor and a second floor bistro and bar where guests could enjoy superb views from the external balcony.  
                                                                                                                                                                                                                  The Evolution is ideally suited to events like the airshow as it can be constructed quickly in any location without comprising on the quality of the finished building.  Insulated walls and the double-skinned, air-filled roof help to maintain a comfortable interior while reducing climate control costs and emissions. The mezzanines are strong enough to support hanging exhibits and Neptunus also arranged air conditioning, electrics, washrooms and kitchens for the facility, along with all the floor coverings, telecoms, furnishings, graphics, fire fighting equipment and even the flowers and cleaners.

Farnborough International Airshow, staged this year from July 14-21, is the premier gathering of the aviation industry where multi-million pound deals are struck, new developments announced and aircraft capabilities showcased in breathtaking displays of skill and daring.

A packed schedule throughout the week saw several Farnborough firsts including appearances from the light attack and reconnaissance Textron Airland Scorpian and the Spanish Navy’s Sea Harrier.

Managing Director April Trasler says: “We are quite used to building standard three-storey structures and have lots of experience of building Evolutions with one internal mezzanine to create a two-tier temporary building, but this marks a first for us as we’ve needed to add the leg height for the second internal mezzanine for guests to be able to see over other structures at the show, making it our first three-storey Evolution.”

“The Evolution building provided guests of Thales with  a superb viewing platform from which to enjoy the amazing aerial displays and we look forward to repeating the experience in 2016!”

A spokesperson for Thales Group said: “We are very pleased to have worked with Neptunus on this project and we are having a very successful show. We have received many compliments from senior management and guests.’’