Business aviation has enjoyed a bullish few years, but there are signs that this prosperity may have peaked. If so, it is possible that in ten years the cycles of recession and depression may have passed and business aviation could once again be recovering.

Following the last recession, corporate aviation emerged leaner and stronger. Some flight departments closed down but many of the companies that survived the recession not only retained their company aircraft but upgraded them. Their aircraft was an essential tool that gave them a competitive edge.

The critical factor is strength of global business.

The airlines will probably concentrate on operating large aircraft into principal airports; it is unlikely that they will offer business leaders the service they will need to stay ahead in the competitive global marketplace.

Long-range, high and fast-flying corporate aircraft offer a unique service in saving time and avoiding stress; they are tool that enable international companies to prosper. In ten years, I would expect to see highly sophisticated corporate aircraft operating in the upper airspace, using satellite technology for navigation and communication. The number of aircraft may not increase significantly but the technology used in their construction and operation will.

What about the smaller business aircraft? North America will maintain its very large fleet – but what about Europe?

The reduction of Customs & Immigration barriers may encourage use of aircraft better able to use smaller airfields. For many years it has been more costly to operate business aircraft in Europe than elsewhere, and ill-conceived regulations have discouraged potential operators.

Good work progresses in drafting a common set of regulations for corporate aviation in Europe – JAR OPS 2.

There is goodwill between regulators and some industry representatives evident in this work. Here is a real opportunity to produce a sensible set of regulations to maintain high safety standards without unnecessary inhibitions.

The outcome of the JAA work will have a significant effect on business aviation’s growth in Europe. If Europe is to prosper, it must encourage commerce and industry, that includes facilitating the use of that effective business tool, the corporate aircraft. The future depends on politicians – will they provide proper facilities for business aviation?

Working with politicians and regulators to control costs and regulations, while maintaining a high level of safety, is what BAUA (Business Aviation Users Association) does. We are an effective voice: corporate aviation needs effective voices if we wish to be around in ten years time.

However, too many operators of corporate aircraft are content to benefit from our work while contributing nothing towards the cost.

Aviation needs representatives with good technical background and negotiating skills. Without them, corporate aviation will not retain its access to airports and airspace and will be inhibited by ill-conceived regulations.

Corporate aircraft operators must have effective representation. Without it, in ten years time, particularly in Europe, they may find many airports and much of the airspace out of bounds.

Derek Leggett chief executive, Business Aircraft Users Association