NBAA's board of directors has named Dan Hubbard interim chief operating officer, giving him day-to-day leadership of the association while president and CEO Ed Bolen takes a leave of absence for cancer treatment.

Hubbard has been with NBAA for 22 years and has served as senior vice president for communications since 2008. Beyond communications and brand strategy, he has been closely involved in NBAA's external affairs, partnerships and advocacy work in the US and internationally, including conventions on four continents.

“We are wishing Ed a full recovery as he takes the time he needs to focus on his health,” says John Witzig, NBAA board chair. “Dan has a strong strategic view of NBAA's mission and all its initiatives, and he will oversee day-to-day operations during Ed's absence, including at NBAA-BACE.”

“NBAA is well-positioned to continue operating seamlessly and serving members strategically and effectively, and I am honoured to step in and lead our dedicated team,” Hubbard says. “I have every confidence in our ability to execute an outstanding NBAA-BACE next month, while continuing to advance the industry's policy agenda.”

NBAA has also elevated Heidi Williams to senior vice president, operations, filling the position left by Douglas Carr's retirement in July. Williams currently serves as vice president, air traffic services and infrastructure, coordinating policy with the FAA and other government and industry stakeholders. She also leads NBAA's emerging technologies work and its airspace and air traffic modernisation efforts.

NBAA-BACE takes place October 20-22 at the Las Vegas Convention Centre and Henderson Executive Airport (HND).