In the aftermath of the recently-concluded NBAA GO Flight Operations Conference, the NBAA says the first-time virtual event broke new ground in providing access to highly compelling speakers, brand-name industry exhibitors and networking opportunities. NBAA produced the conference in collaboration with the association's schedulers and dispatchers committee and international operators committee.

“Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, we brought the industry together in a very engaging way that helped us connect, learn from one another and move the industry forward,” says NBAA schedulers and dispatchers committee chair Emily White.

NBAA international operators committee chair Kurt Stehling agrees: “The NBAA GO Flight Operations Conference proved that our industry is dedicated to finding innovative ways to chart a course for a brighter future today, tomorrow and together.”

NBAA noted that exhibitors were pleased with the number and calibre of business connections offered by the conference; attendees pointed to the event's value in offering a robust exhibit floor and content menu.

Features of the virtual conference included three keynote sessions to inspire business aviation professionals, including: world champion adventure racer Robyn Benincasa, who shared secrets to extreme performance that can be applied to business and personal life; ‘zen pilot’ Robert DeLaurentis, who flew a South-to-North Pole peace mission, as well as an around-the-world flight featuring 27 stops and totalling 27,000 miles; and a Flight Operators Town Hall featuring NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen, veteran aviation journalist Bill Garvey, NBAA international operators committee chair Kurt Stehling and NBAA schedulers and dispatchers committee chair Emily White.

More than 40 education sessions, focusing on emerging technologies, aviation sustainability, COVID-era best practices, professional development and international protocols were on offer. All sessions were recorded and are available through March 25, including the Q&A hosted by session presenters. New education sessions on aviation safety will be added each week throughout the month of March to continue to educate and engage with attendees.

Virtual 3D exhibit booths from the industry's leading companies were available, which allowed for personal engagement, real-time chats and an ability to feature new products and services in a unique way. Exhibits are available for attendees to revisit through 25 March.