The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has cancelled April's Asian Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (ABACE), given health concerns and other special challenges for event participants that have arisen in the wake of the Coronavirus outbreak.

President and CEO Ed Bolen notes: “ABACE has always been more than an industry trade show: it is a platform for building business aviation in China, throughout Asia and around the world. NBAA and the Shanghai Airport Authority (SAA) have an extraordinarily strong partnership, having worked closely together for nearly a decade, to build ABACE into one of the world's truly great aviation events.

“Our organisations have always viewed participating exhibitors, attendees and government leaders as partners, and as with all NBAA events, their health, safety and security is always our highest priority.

“While the Chinese government is taking commendable steps to address the Coronavirus outbreak, the current situation has presented a very challenging environment for decision-making and action for ABACE participants to fully prepare for the event. This necessary step is being taken in the spirit of partnership, collaboration and transparency.

“We will focus on making ABACE 2021 the best edition yet, and continuing its critical role in promoting business aviation in China, across Asia and around the world. As we look to next year's event, and those in the years to come, we look forward to building on our relationships with the SAA, our host FBO Shanghai Hawker Pacific Business Aviation Centre and our peers with the Asian Business Aviation Association in producing ABACE, ensuring the show's continued success for business aviation across the globe.”