As of this writing, it appears that 2022 NBAA-BACE is likely to be one of the most exciting events in the association’s 75-year history, given the exhibits, aircraft, speakers, special events and moments designed to surprise and delight.
And as we prepare to start a new year, I know everyone is encouraged by what’s been happening in business aviation in 2022. We’re doing more than getting back to normal; we’re moving forward, with innovation and an eye on the horizon.
“I know everyone is encouraged by what’s been happening in business aviation in 2022. We’re doing more than getting back to normal; we’re moving forward, with innovation and an eye on the horizon.”
We saw this progress earlier this year at the two NBAA Regional Forums. Our first regional gathering at Florida’s Miami-Opa locka Executive Airport (OPF) in February exceeded all expectations, with hundreds more attendees than first anticipated. In June, nearly 2,500 people met at Westchester County Airport (HPN) in White Plains, NY, for that area’s first regional gathering in three years.
We also saw our industry’s optimism and resilience on display at the 2022 European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition, which, in addition to hosting thousands of attendees, featured an impressive array of new product introductions and announcements.
These well-attended events weren’t only about getting back to in-person gatherings; they have each served as a celebration of business aviation and the bold ideas, emerging technologies, inspiring people and new markets propelling us toward a promising future.
The events also were a reminder that when COVID-19 struck, business aviation didn’t sit idly by and wait for better times. Instead, we did what we do best: we researched, invested and set a course for a brighter future. This approach has positioned business aviation well coming out of the pandemic, creating new jobs, new technologies, new business models and other opportunities.
That said, we can’t afford to rest on our laurels. For example, even with all the recent good news, we still have much to do to attract, develop and retain business aviation professionals. Studies show that qualified workers in our industry will be in short supply for the foreseeable future.
That is why NBAA has focused on helping aircraft operators establish internship programs and fostered the growth of the association’s Young Professionals in Business Aviation (“YoPro”) group. That’s also why NBAA is participating in the FAA/DOT Women in Aviation Advisory Board and the Youth Access to American Jobs in Aviation Task Force.
Our industry’s return to full flight operations also means our focus on safety must remain sharp. NBAA continues to work with other stakeholders to enhance flight safety. For example, we helped sponsor the Citation Jet Pilots Association’s “Safe to Land” study conducted last year, which is now spurring data-driven solutions to improve landing performance.
The association’s work to help build the workforce, enhance safety and pursue a host of other initiatives would not be successful without NBAA member support. I thank you all for helping us work toward an even brighter future for our industry.
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.