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20 The PCB Design Magazine • July 2017 FEATURE INTERVIEW by Dan Beaulieu So many have wanted to attend, but so few have. The International Paris Air show is the crème de la crème of the world's trade shows. This is the big one, where all the aircraft, airline and defense aerospace companies meet to intro- duce new products, discuss the future of avia- tion, and make deals— big deals. For the past few years, American Standard Circuits has been attending the Paris Air Show as part of an Illinois delegation, and they have found it a very worthwhile endeavor. Located in West Chicago, American Standard Circuits is one of North America's leading independent space, defense and aerospace printed circuit board producers. This year I decided to talk to my friend Ana- ya Vardya, ASC's president and CEO, about the show, why he goes and what it's like. Dan Beaulieu: Anaya, Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to talk with me today. There are many us who are fascinated by The International Paris Air Show with ASC's Anaya Vardya the International Paris Air Show. What is the show like? Anaya Vardya: My pleasure, Dan. First, it is the world's largest and most important air show. It is also the oldest, which is interesting. The first Paris Air Show was held in 1909, and since 1949 it has been held every odd year. It is held at Le Bourget Airport which, by the way, is the same airport where Charles Lindbergh landed after his flight in 1927. The event starts with four professional days closed to the public; and then on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday the public is allowed in. More than 350,000 people attend every year, including dignitaries from all over the world. This year was no exception, with the show officially opened by new French President Macron. Many high-level U.S. officials attended, including the Honorable Uzra Zeya, Chargé d'Affaires of the Emba ssy of United States, the Honorable Elaine Chao, Secretary of Transportation, and many governors, senators, and congresspersons.