More than 500 business aviation professionals attended the 2026 NBAA Leadership Conference in Texas between 2–4 February, with 43% taking part for the first time. Attendees represented 46 US states and seven countries, making it the largest Leadership Conference to date.

The event was organised by the National Business Aviation Association Business Aviation Management Committee and was co-chaired by Lisa Archambeau CAM of ServiceElements and Mark Scheele CAM of Basin Electric Power Cooperative.

“When leaders learn together the entire industry moves forward,” says Jo Damato CAM senior vice president events and professional development at NBAA. “Professionals from across business aviation invested in their leadership development and prioritised building the capabilities and connections needed to elevate their performance and advance our community well into the future.”

The conference theme “From Potential to Performance: Unlocking the Best in Yourself and Your Team” highlighted the idea that leadership development strengthens entire teams. Interactive keynotes and discussions focused on practical skills and real-world leadership challenges.

Keynote speakers included Stephanie Chung Alex Weber and David Rendall, covering topics from leading with confidence to working effectively with people who bring different perspectives.

Attendees described the conference as an essential part of their professional development. The event also introduced the third class of NBAA Certified Aviation Manager fellows and announced the 2026 Leadership Conference Scholarship recipients.

The 2027 conference takes place February 8–10 in Tucson Arizona.