Later this month, the 63rd annual NBAA meeting and convention opens at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. The NBAA Convention won’t reappear in Atlanta for some time, as the next four shows are scheduled for Las Vegas (2011), Orlando (2012), Las Vegas (2013) and then again in Orlando (2014).
The NBAA Convention remains a key date on business aviation’s calendar in an economy that has dealt a severe blow to the industry. While many flight departments have closed, manufacturers have laid off thousands and flight operations remain depressed, business aviation has a strong core of adherents, and it will take more than a recession to stop them from flying. This year’s event looks to be a good indicator that ultimately a positive outcome is likely, although no one knows with any certainty when that will happen. Nevertheless, excitement is already in the air. AIN has learned that many exhibitors are planning interesting announcements and the floor will offer plenty of excellent booth prizes, including the traditional Million Air and CRS Jet Spares motorcycles and also a passel of Apple iPads, which have exploded overnight into an essential tool for aviators.
