Matt Thurber, editor-in-chief at AIN Media Group, has been flying since 1975 and writing about aviation since 1978 and now has the best job in the world, running editorial operations for Aviation International News, Business Jet Traveler, and FutureFlight.aero. In addition to working as an A&amp;P mechanic on everything from Piper Cubs to turboprops, Matt taught flying at his father’s flight school in Plymouth, Mass., in the early 1980s, flew for an aircraft owner/pilot, and for two summer seasons hunted swordfish near the George’s Banks off the East Coast from a Piper Super Cub. An ATP certificated fixed-wing pilot and CFII and commercial helicopter pilot, Matt is type-rated in the Citation 500 and Gulfstream V/550. Based in the Pacific Northwest, Matt and his team cover the entire aviation scene including business aircraft, helicopters, avionics, safety, manufacturing, charter, fractionals, technology, air transport, advanced air mobility, defense, and other subjects of interest to AIN, BJT, and FutureFlight readers.

Editor-in-Chief

Matt Thurber

Next year, the Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) will welcome the growing number of high-net-worth individuals in the UAE to the MEBAA 2026 show. Over the past decade, the number of millionaires based in the UAE has grown by 98%, according to MEBAA. With “$63 billion in new investible wealth expected to flow into the country in 2025,” the association noted, “private aviation demand is accelerating fast, and it’s translating into real deals.”
During the last MEBAA show, the 10th edition held in 2024, more than 145 exhibitors—65 first-timers—were on hand. The static display hosted 30 aircraft from major business and general aviation manufacturers.
According to the association, 92% of exhibitors are likely to return for the 11th MEBAA show, scheduled for December 8 to 10, 2026, at the Dubai World Central convention center at Al Maktoum International Airport. “This strong commitment highlights the show’s ongoing success and its crucial role in shaping the future of the industry,” according to MEBAA.

News and developments about airplanes, helicopters and unmanned air vehicles used in all varieties of operations, including airlines, military, business, commercial, general aviation and private.

Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation Association Preps for ‘Surging’ Interest at 2026 Bizav Event

Association is highlighting interest in business aviation among Middle East’s growing HNWI population 

According to MEBAA, 92% of exhibitors are likely to return for the 11th MEBAA show, scheduled for December 8 to 10 in 2026 at Al Maktoum International Airport. 

MEBAA Preps for ‘Surging’ Interest at 2026 Bizav Event

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

David Donald

Essential news and analysis on the defense aerospace business. Your trusted source for new and ongoing programs and requirements in military aircraft (manned and unmanned), engines, avionics, weapons and associated systems, including ground-based air defense.

The South American nation is to acquire 17 aircraft, including a pair of two-seaters

Colombia Signs for Saab Gripen E/F

Charlotte Bailey

Charles Alcock

News about commercial airlines, including regulations, aircraft orders, safety, acquisitions, and mergers.

News and developments about aircraft engines, including turbofan, turboprop, turboshaft and piston.

News and issues relating to the aerospace industry that are related to the science, engineering and business of flight in space involving civil, industrial and military applications, and similar topics related to flight in the atmosphere of the Earth that are not covered more directly by other AINonline subject channels. In other words, both astronautical and aeronautical subjects, except for those aeronautical topics that are specifically covered elsewhere on this website.

News and issues relating to international air transport and cargo carriers, national airlines and regional airlines, including aircraft, engines, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security and training.

777-9 appearance at Dubai show marks 12th anniversary of program launch

Boeing Insists 777X Widebody Is Worth the Wait

The UAE’s national aerobatic team is now flying the Hongdu L-15 Falcon from China

Emirati Knights Parade New Steeds

More than 300 new aircraft orders and commitments anticipated during show week

Dubai Airshow Stands Out for Airliner Orders and Military Surprises

Using certified software and hardware across different platforms can drive down costs

Salient's Modular Approach Addresses Supply-chain Issues

News and issues relating to business, corporate and private aviation, primarily regarding turbine-engine-powered airplanes and helicopters. Subjects include aircraft, engines, maintenance, operations, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security, and training.

Dassault showcasing largest business jet cabin and longest-range jet 

Two Falcon Jets on Dubai Airshow Display

News and issues concerning general aviation, specifically airplanes and helicopters powered by piston and alternative engines (i.e., non-turbine powered aircraft). Subjects include aircraft, engines, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security and training.

A50 and A60 models feature iconic corrugated aluminum fuselages

Junkers Offers Modern Take on Classic Light Aircraft

News about bills, laws, regulations and other governmental decisions affecting aviation and aerospace. Topics include FAA re-authorizations, taxes on fuel and aviation activities, environmental legislation, ICAO decisions, governmental mediation of labor conflicts and World Trade Organization disputes and decisions.

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