Author: Kevin Wieging
Airquee inflatables (Pronounced Airkey) was a new exhibitor at the IOA Expo that just concluded in Nashville, TN March 16-19, 2026. The IOA Inflatable Safety Conference and Amusement Expo in now in its second year and focuses on risk management and safety training for the inflatable industry, but also boasts 4 days of education related to encouraging the success of inflatable businesses through marketing, management, and discussion about efficient operations of a rental business.
Over 50+ inflatable industry businesses were also on hand including some of the largest manufacturers supporting the show like EZ Inflatables, HEC Worldwide, Leisure Activities, Big and Bright Inflatables, Happy Jump, Bouncing Angels, Tent & Table, and Jumper Supply. As you walked into the Expo hall, you couldn’t help but notice the Airquee dragon display as the wings moved as if the dragon might take flight.
Airquee boasts over 30 years of manufacturing and design experience in Europe and has been significantly established with development of indoor inflatable parks. Their manufacturing facility is based in Romania with company headquarters in London. Globally they are focused on a WOW factor and talking with them these innovations have already yielded provided an animated gumball bouncer, the Flying Dragon, and even smoke effects incorporated into the nostrils being developed.
The dragon on display at IOA EXPO weighed in at approximately 400 lbs., so the innovations didn’t add significant weight. As far as extra equipment, the animated designs only included an extra electronic control box to the basic inflation of the unit managed by 2 blower units. All wiring, valves, or hoses associated with the animation for the flying wings of the dragon remain inside and are simply rolled up with the unit.
Airquee seems intent on pushing the boundaries of innovation and the dragon remains in the United States after being purchased the FIRST day of the EXPO! The dragon design was listed at show for $3,495.00. They will be expanding their US presence and offer more design for sale.
Looking closely at Airquee units, many attending the EXPO also noticed stake covers sewn into the stake points for Airquee designs. Maybe not as noticeable as a flying dragon with wings, but a focus on safety innovations was also discussed in our short ZOOM meeting following the IOA Expo. EU standards for safety require covering of stake points and Airquee also refers to the ASTM standards as they continue to design and introduce more to the US.
More information can be found via the company website www.airquee.com Airquee has committed to returning to The IOA Inflatable Safety Conference and Amusement Expo February 1-4, 2027.