Aims To Spotlight Smaller Side Of BizAv

When you think of the National Business Aviation Association, what types of aircraft first come to mind? Citations, Challengers, Falcons and the like... right? Well, NBAA would like people to think smaller, too.

At a packed news conference Wednesday at Lakeland 2008, NBAA CEO Ed Bolen announced the first of what the organization hopes will be an annual event, showcasing the "lighter" side of business aviation -- light jets, turboprops, and piston aircraft. The inaugural Light Airplane Conference and Exhibition is scheduled for March 12-14, 2009, in San Diego, CA.

"We are confident that the Light Airplane Conference & Exhibition will be well received by our light airplane operators, who will now benefit from a show filled with exhibits and educational information sessions focused on their unique interests, and a static display that showcases their aircraft."

NBAA plans to have approximately 1,000 exhibit booth spaces at LAC&E, with 50 aircraft on display at nearby San Diego International Airport. The organization also expects to offer 25 information sessions, tailored to light business aircraft operators.

While the perception of his organization is mostly of its high-flying members in Global Express jets and BBJs, Bolen noted that of NBAA's estimated 8,000 member business and organizations, 1,000 operate piston aircraft -- and that a majority (60 percent) own just a single plane they use for business.

Bolen acknowledged those users may feel "overshadowed" by larger operators, or during the pomp and circumstance of NBAA's annual conference -- and feels a different kind of show is needed to appeal to those users.

And, Bolen added, NBAA wants to hear from those users, to help cater the event to their interests.

"Perhaps the best part about this show is that light airplane operators are going to help guide our planning for it," Bolen said. "Throughout the rest of Sun 'N Fun, and in the months to come, NBAA wants to hear from light aircraft operators in our industry about how to make the event as valuable an experience as possible."

Bolen said anyone interested in having their voice heard may submit their suggestions to ideas@nbaa.org, or by calling 1-800-9-AVIATE.

When asked whether Bolen felt the new show targeting smaller aircraft types -- those showcased at other general aviation "letter group" events, such as AOPA Expo -- Bolen flatly said NBAA "would not have gone forward (with LAC&E) if we felt it would have conflicted.

"AOPA is a key strategic partner in the ultimate success of business aviation," he added.

FMI: www.nbaa.org