The Japan International Aerospace Exhibition in Nagoya this weekend offers a special opportunity for the general public to view a variety of airplanes up close.

This particular exhibition is held in Japan once every four years mainly for the purpose of allowing the world's major manufacturers of aircraft, components, rockets, satellites and other products to come together to trade.

The event will take place at two venues; Port Messe Nagoya, where many of the manufacturers will set up booths showing off their latest technologies and products, and at Central Japan International Airport (Centrair). At the airport, visitors will be able to see large aircraft up close and can even get a hands-on experience in the cockpit.

During the airshow the airport will host flight demonstrations that will include newly developed aircraft from the Japan Coast Guard, Nagoya's fire department, the Ground Self-Defense Force and the Air Self-Defense Force's Blue Impulse aerobatics corps.

These impressive machines will demonstrate taking off, hovering and circling. Performances are scheduled to take place from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Oct. 12, and from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Oct. 13 and 14. Blue Impulse will show off their aerobatics from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. on Oct. 13 and 14.

The Japan International Aerospace Exhibition takes place Oct. 12-14 at Port Messe Nagoya and Central Japan International Airport. Tickets cost ¥1,000 for adults and ¥500 for students in advance, and ¥1,200 and ¥600 respectively at the door. For more information, visit www.japanaerospace.jp/index.html