Program – SDC2026
Unless otherwise noted, all 2026 NBAA Schedulers & Dispatchers Conference (SDC2026) events will take place at the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland, 1 St. Clair Ave NE, Cleveland, OH 44114.
The SDC2026 exhibit hall will be located in Halls A-C.
Sunday | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday
Sunday, March 22, 2026
PDP Registration
Location: Hilton Cleveland Downtown, Hope Ballroom Foyer
Continental Breakfast
Location: Hilton Cleveland Downtown, Hope Ballroom Foyer
NBAA PDP Course: Essentials in Scheduling and Dispatch for Business Aviation (Day 1 of 2)
Location: Hilton Cleveland Downtown, Hope Ballroom B
Presenters: Gary Martin and Juan Muniz, Universal Weather
This two-day course is designed for all aviation professionals. It is a good refresher for certified dispatchers wishing to update their knowledge and skills with the latest information about the duties and responsibilities of an aircraft dispatcher. The course is also open to schedulers and other aviation professionals considering enrollment in a dispatch license program. This is also a great course for those who would like to increase their aviation knowledge overall. This course will cover topics related to Federal Aviation Regulations, advanced planning, pre-flight requirements, flight planning and in-flight support considerations for aircraft dispatchers supporting corporate aviation operations.
This course fulfills NBAA PDP Objective Operations Ops 2.
Monday, March 23, 2026
PDP Registration
Location: Hilton Cleveland Downtown, Hope Ballroom Foyer
PDP Continental Breakfast
Location: Hope Ballroom Foyer
NBAA PDP Course: Leadership for Aviation Professionals
Location: Hilton Cleveland Downtown, Hope Ballroom C
Presenter: Bob Mason, Daedalus Group
This one-day, highly interactive workshop will equip all levels of leaders and team members with the critical skills needed to build and maintain an organizational culture and team dynamic focused on safety and service excellence. Participants will explore effective leadership from any seat, techniques for fostering team collaboration and trust, customer expectation management, understanding the value proposition, goal setting, and strategies for clear, effective communication. Through practical activities and real case studies, participants will gain the knowledge and tools to implement these concepts immediately within their organization.
This course fulfills NBAA PDP Objectives Leadership L3 and L4.
NBAA PDP Course: Essentials in Scheduling and Dispatch for Business Aviation (Day 2 of 2)
Location: Hilton Cleveland Downtown, Hope Ballroom B
Presenters: Gary Martin and Juan Muniz – Universal Weather
This two-day course is designed for business aviation professionals that currently have a dispatcher’s license and wish to update their knowledge and skills with the latest information about the duties and responsibilities of an aircraft dispatcher. The course is also open to advanced-level schedulers considering enrollment in a dispatch license program. This course will cover topics related to Federal Aviation Regulations, advanced planning, pre-flight requirements, flight planning and in-flight support considerations for aircraft dispatchers supporting corporate aviation operations.
This course fulfills NBAA PDP Objective Operations Ops 2.
Conference Registration Open
Location: Exhibit Hall Concourse
Exhibitor Setup
Location: Exhibit Hall ABC
Tuesday, March 24, 2026
Exhibitor Setup
Location: Exhibit Hall ABC
Registration Open
Location: Exhibit Hall Concourse
Continental Breakfast
Location: Atrium
Ambassador Meeting
Location: Level 2, 205A
If you are a volunteer ambassador, this event is for you! This is a great opportunity for ambassadors to meet each other, ask questions and learn more about your duties at SDC2026.
First-Time Attendee Meeting
Location: Level 2, 205B
If you are a first-time attendee, this event is for you! This is a great opportunity for first-time attendees to meet each other and ask questions from veteran ambassador volunteers. This event will be held in a fun, fast format with game show elements and the potential to win prizes. Speakers will review the attendee passport program to help you get the most out of your week in Cleveland.
Complete your attendee passport to be eligible for the grand prize that will be drawn at the Grand Prize Happy Hour on Thursday, March 26.
Scheduling 101: Building a Solid Foundation
Location: Level 2, 205A
New to scheduling – or need a refresher? This introductory session equips you with essential skills and knowledge to succeed in business aviation scheduling. Learn core responsibilities, key tools and terminology and how your role supports safe, efficient operations. Discover the value of checklists, strategies for building strong FBO relationships and how extreme weather impacts aircraft performance and scheduling efficiency. Whether you’re starting out or reinforcing your foundation, this session helps build confidence and competence by revisiting critical concepts often overlooked in day-to-day operations.
Build and Strengthen Your ERP
Location: Level 2, 205B
When a crisis strikes, your Emergency Response Plan (ERP) is your most vital tool. This session equips schedulers, dispatchers and operations leaders with practical strategies to build, evaluate and reinforce ERPs that work under pressure. Through real-world case studies, learn how clear protocols, cross-functional coordination and proactive planning prevent confusion and ensure compliance. Discover what separates effective response from operational breakdown – and how your team can remain confident when the unexpected occurs.
Clearance Delivery: Inspiring the Next Generation of Business Aviation Professionals
Location: Level 3, 307A
Whether it’s an invitation to your child’s career day or an opportunity to present at the local college, you’ve decided to step up and inspire business aviation’s future leaders. Now, what to say? Start by understanding your audience. Learn how to engage middle school students, compared to high school students and college students. Get tools and resources for grassroots engagement and learn how to partner with schools and other workplace readiness programs. Hear success stories from our panel and live from the audience. Walk away ready to spark the next wave of aviation talent.
The Power of Inclusion: Strengthening Teams Through Diversity
Location: Level 3, 307B
This session examines how diverse perspectives in aviation can lead to stronger decisions, better coordination and safer outcomes. Hear from industry leaders who’ve built inclusive workspaces that foster accountability, innovation and resilience. Through real-world examples, learn how embracing varied backgrounds and lived experiences keeps flight departments agile and ready to respond. In today’s business aviation industry, inclusion isn’t just a value – it’s an asset for any team.
Lunch
Location: Atrium Ballroom
Strategic Weather Planning for Mission Success
Location: Level 2, 205A
Weather is one of the most unpredictable variables in flight operations – but it doesn’t have to catch you off guard. This session examines how proactive planning can reduce risk and create options. Learn to interpret weather data and turn it into actionable insights. Collaborate easily with crews, consult meteorologists and build flexibility to minimize delays and rerouting. Hear how operators use weather tools and crew coordination to stay ahead of changing conditions – and minimize disruptions.
Climbing Fast: The Sustainability Game Show
Location: Level 2, 205B
Business aviation operators face mounting pressure to monitor, report and verify (MRV) their environmental impact. This session offers an overview of global and regional regulations, MRV requirements and how flight departments can control costs while advancing sustainability goals. Get practical guidance for emissions tracking, tools for simplified reporting and strategies to overcome challenges like data gaps and shifting policies. Topics include aircraft technology, energy infrastructure, operational efficiencies and financial incentives.
Evaluating Supplemental Lift Options
Location: Level 3, 307A
When an aircraft is unexpectedly grounded, or passenger demand exceeds fleet capacity, schedulers must quickly secure supplemental lift without compromising safety or standards. This session explores how to evaluate third-party providers, align service expectations and avoid costly missteps – especially in unfamiliar locations. Learn the key questions to ask, red flags to watch for and best practices to ensure compliance and confidence – especially when time is short and the stakes are high.
Navigating Career Advancement
Location: Level 3, 307B
Discover creative ways to elevate your personal development and enhance your role within your flight operations team. Seasoned industry leaders share how to demonstrate leadership – whether your aircraft is on the ground or in the air – and become an indispensable team member. Learn how to take command of your career trajectory, identify the best training opportunities and unlock new levels of professional growth This session will also focus on real world scenarios, discussing the impact a small error can have and how to recover with grace. The way a team reacts to a misstep can make or break the reputation of a flight department. Training for departments on how to correct errors in a time-sensitive and customer friendly manner are crucial. Wherever you are in your career, this session will help you achieve new heights.
Afternoon Break
Location: Atrium
Global Ops Part I: Traversing the Eastern Hemisphere
Location: Level 2, 205A
The Eastern Hemisphere is renowned for its complex routings, evolving permit requirements and tightening security. Operating in Europe, Asia and Africa takes time and resources. Learn how flight departments manage crew safety, passenger security, regulatory compliance and tap trip planning specialists. Take this thorough tour before putting together missions in these regions.
Questions with Customs
Location: Level 2, 205B
As U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) intensifies its oversight of general aviation, even small errors can lead to fines, delays or denied entry. This session reviews the latest CBP policies and common pitfalls schedulers and dispatchers must avoid. Learn how accurate documentation and clear communication streamline international arrivals and departures. In a live Q&A, ask business aviation specialists how to prepare and avoid costly missteps. Whether you’re new to international operations or managing complex global missions, this session will equip you for smooth cross-border operations.
Understanding Taxes
Location: Level 3, 307A
Schedulers and dispatchers have a critical role in budgets and tax planning. Often, they’re the first to know who’s flying, why and how. Accurate documentation and recordkeeping can drastically reduce the workload later in the year, and catch potential red flags from the beginning. Experts will explain key concepts like SIFL, IRS disallowance, campaign contribution notifications, SEC filings, federal excise tax and depreciation. Whether you’re new or need a refresher, this session will cover recent tax code changes and provide financial clarity.
Part 135: What You Need to Know and Ask
Location: Level 3, 307B
Operating under Part 135 involves strict regulatory demands and little room for error. This session outlines key compliance requirements and best practices schedulers and dispatchers must master to ensure safe, legal and efficient flights. Get a fuller understanding of real-world regulatory challenges with this session’s technical knowledge for Part 135 schedulers and dispatchers, as well as a robust roundtable discussion.
The Launch
Location: Exhibit Hall ABC
Welcome to the arrivals terminal for SDC2026! This opening reception experience will feature networking, interactive activities, entertainment and – of course – food and drink! Help kick off SDC2026 at the Launch!
Wednesday, March 25, 2026
Registration Open
Location: Exhibit Hall Concourse
Continental Breakfast
Location: Atrium
Scheduling 201: Expert Techniques for Efficient Flight Coordination
Location: Level 2, 205A
This interactive, scenario-driven session is designed for aviation professionals seeking to sharpen decision-making and strategic planning in complex, real-world situations. Topics include missed slots, last-minute changes, supplemental lift, international operations, customs and global checklists. Learn how strong cross-departmental collaboration enhances resilience and why accurate recordkeeping supports safety, audits and long-term planning. Discover how to establish operational standards that promote consistency and accountability. Ideal for schedulers, managers and operations teams, this session offers best practices to avoid complacency, elevate strategic thinking and deliver lasting value to your organization.
Defend, Detect, Deter I: Managing Security in a Digital World
Location: Level 2, 205B
Today’s flight departments must be prepared for more than just logistical surprises. From cybersecurity breaches to physical threats abroad, operational risks abound. In this eye-opening session, we’ll go beyond the basics and explore real-world incidents like aircraft vandalism, digital breaches and compromised devices. The good news: proper planning can seriously reduce risk. Learn how to prepare for worst-case scenarios like stolen passports or pilot robbery overseas. Hear from schedulers and corporate security leaders with best practices for crew protection, data security and situational awareness across Part 91 and 135 operations. Improve situational awareness to build resilience into every leg of the journey.
Beyond Implementation: Cultivating a Proactive Safety Culture
Location: Level 3, 307A
You’ve implemented a safety management system (SMS) in your flight department – now what? True impact comes from active engagement. This session is about becoming an active contributor to your department’s safety culture. We will empower schedulers and dispatchers to apply risk management tools, recognize and report safety concerns. See how briefings, alerts and interdepartmental communication can improve safety – and how missed signals can cause breakdowns. Learn to leverage safety meetings, audits and continuous improvement to refine workflows and strengthen safety culture.
Floating Fleet Roundtable
Location: Level 3, 307B
Operating aircraft without a fixed base offers flexibility – but also brings managerial and logistical operational challenges. As AI and automation reshape dispatch roles, floating fleet operators must evolve quickly. This session gathers on-demand aviation leaders to share real-world cases and best practices for managing decentralized fleets, coordinating crews and assets and adopting emerging technologies. Discover how the right tools can drive innovation, flexibility and operational excellence.
Opening Keynote – Atrium Ballroom
Kick off day two of SDC2026 with a welcome from NBAA Schedulers & Dispatchers Chairs Lisa Barrayo-Frankhouser and Mitch Papontos, followed by an industry update from NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen and a keynote fireside chat with Flexjet Chairman and Directional Aviation Capital Principal Kenneth “Kenn” Ricci. The keynote will also include recognition of the S&D Outstanding Achievement & Leadership Award recipient, along with the winners and donors of the Schedulers & Dispatchers Monetary & Training Award Scholarships.
Exhibit Hall Open
Location: Exhibit Hall ABC
Lunch
Location: Hall C
Optimizing Fuel Planning and Uplift
Location: Level 2, 205A
Fuel decisions are among the most complex and important in business aviation. This session explores how flight departments can optimize fuel planning and strategically balance cost, safety and regulatory compliance. Discover how pricing trends, tankering, route dynamics, airport infrastructure and contingency planning can shape fuel strategies. Through expert insights and practical examples, learn how to support smarter, more sustainable operations in today’s dynamic aviation environment.
Charter Essentials: What You Need to Know
Location: Level 2, 205B
The charter market is evolving fast. From shifting demand and customer expectations to regulatory changes and operational constraints, flight coordination now demands sharper insight and quicker decisions. This session looks at how these trends affect everything from day-to-day scheduling to long-term planning. Get real-world examples and the latest market data. Whether you’re coordinating flights for high-profile events or managing last-minute changes, this discussion equips you to navigate today’s dynamic charter environment with confidence and clarity.
Handling 101: What Happens After the Wheels Stop Turning
Location: Level 3, 307A
Landing at a new airport can quickly go awry without the right ground support. This session examines how inconsistent handling – from CIQ inspections to GPU connections – can disrupt operations and frustrate crews and passengers. How can you ensure that ground handling supports your operational standards? Discover what to expect, what to demand and how to prepare your aircraft, crew and passengers to avoid surprises on the ramp – and take control on the ground, wherever you land.
Advanced Air Mobility, AI and Emerging Tech: What’s Next
Location: Level 3, 307B
Electric aircraft, AI tools and eVTOL infrastructure are actively reshaping business aviation. This fast-paced session explores how emerging technologies are transforming operations, training and communication – and what dispatchers and flight departments must do to keep up. See how tools like ChatGPT can streamline workflows and support decision-making – and introduce new cybersecurity risks. Learn about FAA certification updates, eVTOL infrastructure, expected timelines and how dispatchers can prepare for the next evolution in business aviation. Navigate the future of flight with agility and confidence.
Dedicated Exhibit Time
Location: Exhibit Hall ABC
Coffee, Cocktails, and Connections
Location: Exhibit Hall ABC
Thursday, March 26, 2026
Registration Open
Location: Exhibit Hall Concourse
Continental Breakfast
Location: Atrium
Exhibits Open
Location: Exhibit Hall ABC
Scheduling 301: Mastering the Art of Scheduling and Dispatching
Location: Level 2, 205A
Success in today’s dynamic flight departments requires more than technical skill – it demands self-advocacy and effective planning. As aviation operations grow in complexity, leaders must evolve from hands-on trip execution to strategic thinking and overseeing a team. Learn from business aviation leaders as they share insights on onboarding, checklist management, separation of duties, mission planning, fatigue mitigation, fleet optimization, contract crew integration and transitioning into leadership. Whether you’re an aspiring or current leader, this session will help you elevate your impact, streamline operations and build high-performing teams in a complex aviation environment.
Defend, Detect, Deter II: Managing Security in a Digital World
Location: Level 2, 205B
Security remains a constant element of risk in business travel, both within the U.S. and internationally. Threats evolve over time, requiring consistent awareness and adaptable strategies. This session examines best practices for identifying and mitigating security risks across physical and digital environments. Explore how every team member contributes to a culture of vigilance and preparedness. Strengthen your operation’s defenses and ensure every trip is secure from planning to completion.
Plotting a Modern Route for Mental health in Aviation
Location: Level 3, 307A
Business aviation requires meeting tight schedules and high standards – but without strong support systems, fatigue and stress can quietly undermine safety and performance. Mental health and personal fatigue are critical concerns. This session examines how proactive scheduling, realistic workloads and clear time-off policies can boost resilience and reduce burnout. Learn to implement fatigue management strategies, set realistic expectations, promote work/life balance and foster a culture that prioritizes mental health without sacrificing operational excellence.
Beyond the Desk: Certifications, Connections, and Growth in Aviation
Location: Level 3, 307B
In business aviation, staying competitive means more than just keeping pace – it means leveling up. This session shows schedulers and dispatchers how to advance their careers through certifications, networking and leadership development. Learn how the NBAA Certified Aviation Manager credential, the FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate, the NBAA Customer Service Certificate and other credentials can unlock new opportunities. Explore strategies for continuing education, mentorship and career planning. Whether you’re growing in your current role or exploring new paths, this session offers actionable insights to help you navigate your professional journey with clarity and confidence.
Global Ops Part II: Traversing the Western Hemisphere
Location: Level 2, 205A
Travel throughout the Western Hemisphere demands attention to various evolving regulatory requirements. Airspace closures, permit requirements and handling restrictions require constant review to stay on top of today’s travel needs. Explore the changing landscape across North, Central and South America, and stay compliant and agile amid shifting rules. Hear from experts who navigate these complexities daily to ensure smooth, safe and efficient travel.
Winning Strategies for Major Events and Busy Airspace
Location: Level 2, 205B
When the skies get crowded, your preparation matters most. This session equips you with the tools and tactics needed to navigate high-traffic airspace during major events like the Super Bowl, the Masters, or the Indy 500. Learn how to anticipate ATC constraints, coordinate with FBOs and handlers and build flexible flight plans that keep passengers moving and crews informed. We’ll cover real-world case studies, FAA advisories, slot programs and best practices for proactive communications and contingency planning. Stay ahead of the congestion to get in and get out smoothly.
Understanding Legal
Location: Level 3, 307A
Every business aviation flight is covered by legal agreements governing how aircraft can be operated, shared and managed – and schedulers play a key role in ensuring compliance. Building on material covered in Understanding Taxes, this session breaks down structures like timeshare arrangements, joint ownership, interchange agreements, chargebacks, dry vs. wet leases and contract crewmember agreements. Learn how these impact operational control and how missteps can lead to violations like illegal charter. Whether you’re reviewing aircraft use policies or navigating SEC and VAT issues, this session answers real-world questions for all experience levels.
International Ops: What You Need to Take Your Handling In-House
Location: Level 3, 307B
In this session, we’ll cover some best practices schedulers should know to support international trips without getting too technical. You’ll learn how to get team buy-in, what to do when an international trip is likely, and how to stay organized. We’ll review key international terms, how to find the right resources, and how to recognize when extra planning or help is needed. We’ll also talk about working with international handlers, deciding whether to self-handle, and giving crews clear, useful information. By the end, you’ll have simple tools and a clear approach to confidently coordinate smooth international trips.
Lunch – SDC2027 Preview
Location: Hall C
SOPs for Scheduling: Playbooks That Keep You Flying
Location: Level 2, 205A
Rapid personnel changes can disrupt dispatch operations – but SOPs can keep performance consistently excellent. If your dispatch team is scaling or experiencing turnover, you may want to deepen your SOPs. This session explores how to build and maintain operational playbooks that support fast onboarding, smooth delegation and consistent execution. See how documented workflows can keep teams aligned. Learn practical strategies for documenting workflows, aligning your team and staying efficient – even when work gets turbulent
Tech Tools That Talk: Connecting Your Systems
Location: Level 2, 205B
There’s no shortage of dispatching, scheduling and charter technologies to choose from – how do you know what fits your organization? This session explores the current tools available for dispatch, scheduling, charter and more. We’ll unpack how these systems can integrate and share tips on evaluating, selecting and actually adopting the right tech. You’ll walk away knowing how to get your team onboard with new tools and streamline your daily workflows.
Human Factors in Dispatch Operations
Location: Level 3, 307A
Schedulers and dispatchers make high-stakes decisions daily, balancing technology, communication and human judgment. As the first point of contact, their role demands a deep understanding of human factors. In business aviation, schedulers and dispatchers are more than coordinators, they are the central hub that keeps crews, management, maintenance, and clients aligned. Miscommunication, unclear protocols, and siloed information may slow operations, frustrate teams, and risk safety. We will examine how cognitive limits, and interpersonal dynamics and ineffective communication affect safety and performance. Explore how we can design tasks, processes and procedures in such a way that takes into account human imperfections. Join us for a thorough discussion on identifying team member traits and strategies to minimize human error. This session will equip you with tools and strategies to break down barriers, foster effective collaboration across functions, and transform communication into a competitive advantage. You’ll discover how to move from reactive firefighting to proactive coordination turning every mission into a model of efficiency, safety, and client satisfaction.
Smooth Transitions: Onboarding and Offboarding Aircraft
Location: Level 3, 307B
Bringing a new aircraft into the fleet or removing one from your operation requires regulatory compliance, operational readiness, and coordination across departments. Learn the complexities of onboarding and offboarding aircraft, from documentation and maintenance to crew assignments and scheduling updates. Throughout the process, schedulers have a critical role, and as always in aviation, it helps to use a checklist. Keep everyone informed and maintain continuity as your fleet evolves.
Exhibitor Landing: Grand Prize Happy Hour
Location: Atrium Ballroom
Close out the week with prizes, drinks and snacks! During conference exhibit hours, participating exhibitors will collect business cards from attendees to enter into prize drawings. Join us as we celebrate an amazing week with friends and partners. Winners must be present to win. Limit one prize per attendee.
Exhibitor Teardown
Location: Exhibit Hall ABC
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