The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) will hold its first-ever immersive online business aviation trade show, the Virtual Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (VBACE), Dec. 2-3, 2020.
The two-day event is free for members and will incorporate many of the traditional elements of NBAA’s live events, including virtual exhibit booths, keynote speakers, product demonstrations, education sessions and more, according to association officials.
“This first-of-its-kind online convention will propel the event into the digital space, offering new and exciting opportunities,” said Chris Strong, NBAA senior vice president, conventions and membership. “With this event, we’re doing more than moving online: We’re moving ahead.”
Exhibitors can engage with virtual show-goers from around the world, network with visitors at their booths, and exchange contact and other information in real time. Exhibitors will be able to customize their booths to best meet their specific needs.
“Our priority for this event is the marketplace. We believe we can deliver something special,” Strong added.
Attendees will be able to connect with exhibiting companies by product category and other quick-search criteria.
Networking opportunities will be plentiful, through direct person-to-person connection among attendees, and dedicated subject-matter lounges. As part of their VBACE experience, attendees will also be able to fill bottomless “virtual backpacks” with information from exhibitors and other materials.
Each day of the show will include keynote speakers from the aviation community and beyond. VBACE will also feature a host of education sessions on the most pressing industry topics, from issues facing the new entrants coming into the marketplace as a product of COVID-19, to operational issues and more.
Access to the show will be available following the event’s conclusion, so attendees will have ample time to continue to experience the booths and education sessions, and exhibitors will have the opportunity for additional exposure to new and returning customers.