Business aviation’s annual NBAA-BACE will begin on 14 October with a keynote featuring multiplatinum musician, pilot and aviation advocate Dierks Bentley. Steuart Walton, a fellow pilot and business leader, will receive the Meritorious Service to Aviation Award during the session.

The convention will take place at Las Vegas Convention Center and Henderson Executive Airport. NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen says: “Get ready for a thrilling opening day at this year’s NBAA-BACE, from the moment the lights go up on the keynote stage, to the singular experiences in the exhibit hall and at the airport, to the capstone event that will gather the industry’s leaders and legends for an inspiring sunset celebration of all that is unique and special about business aviation.”

On the show floor, an expanded and more interactive Flight Deck will feature expert-led discussions. Several announcements are expected throughout the day.

The Aircraft Connection at Henderson Executive will highlight advanced aircraft from Bombardier, Cirrus Aircraft, Daher, Gulfstream Aerospace, Honda Aircraft Company, Pilatus Aircraft, Piper Aircraft, Textron Aviation and others. A new Tribute to Flight Pavilion will display vintage warbirds alongside electric and composite aircraft.

Opening day will end with a celebratory toast at the pavilion, honouring aviation’s past and future. Bolen will be joined by Walton and others to close the day.

“This year’s NBAA-BACE will be the most immersive, inspirational and insightful to date, and it all starts with an electrifying opening day filled with new and reimagined experiences,” says Bolen. “We look forward to seeing everyone in Las Vegas this October.”