While the numbers were still modest compared to shows during the boom years a while back, the latest edition of the National Business Aviation Association Convention, which finished up in Las Vegas last Wednesday, enjoyed solid numbers, this according to the NBAA. Association president Ed Bolen called it "a highly successful show." It seemed that way to us, as we heard positive stories from many exhibitors and were surprised by the generally upbeat tone of show-goers.
There were a few new airplane introductions, including a pair by Cessna (the Latitude and the M2) and the official relaunch of production of the Eclipse jet, branded now as the Eclipse 550. During their opening remarks at the annual media breakfast, Bolen and GAMA head Pete Bunce focused their remarks on aggressively battling the administration on user fees and a proposed cut to the accelerated depreciation program, which allows buyers of business equipment, including jets, to take a larger than standard deduction in year one of ownership. The messages seemed to resonate with the crowds at the show.
In terms of numbers, the show was modestly successful. Over the convention’s three-day run, a total of 26,077 people attended, which is a 7 percent jump over last year's event. Exhibitors increased, as well, by 2 percent to 1,106 in the halls, and there were 101 aircraft on display, both the mini-static section in front of the Las Vegas Convention Center and at the sold out static area at Henderson Executive Airport.
Next year's Halloween edition of the NBAA Convention will take place in Orlando, Florida, from October 30-November 1.
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