NBAA Update: New Look and Features From Your Trusted News Source
For nearly a decade, NBAA Update has provided the latest operational, regulatory and legislative news for the business aviation community each week. With the start of a new year, NBAA today introduces added enhancements to further strengthen the value of NBAA Update to readers. One new feature, based on reader feedback, allows readers to easily share stories through social networks. Of course, NBAA Update will continue reporting on the news, trends and information readers value most. Share your thoughts about the publication's new look at update@nbaa.org. If you don't currently subscribe, sign up now.

Educate New Members of Congress About Business Aviation's Value
As 2011 gets underway, and a new Congress convenes, it is more important than ever that elected officials hear from their constituents about the importance of business aviation to their local communities and the national economy. NBAA will continue its outreach to members of Congress about the industry’s value and priorities, yet the Association counts on people involved with business aviation to make their voices heard in Washington. One simple way to reach out to your elected officials is with NBAA's Contact Congress resource. This online tool generates an introduction letter to send to your senators and representative that explains business aviation's value and urges them to support proposals that protect the people and businesses that depend upon the use of the general aviation aircraft. Learn more.

IRS Adjusts 2011 Air Transportation Excise Tax Rates
Last week, the IRS announced inflation adjustments to the excise taxes on air transportation for 2011. The new rates took effect January 1 and are valid for air transportation that begins or is paid for no later than March 31, 2011. The Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2010 was signed into law on December 22, 2010. Review the rates online.

NBAA Resources Key to Local Advocacy in Minnesota, Nationwide
As state legislatures prepare for the 2011 session, organizations like the Minnesota Business Aviation Association (MBAA) have turned to NBAA to help support local advocacy efforts on policies related to taxes, airports and other issues. Gordon Hoff, MBAA executive director, says, "Providing legislators the facts about business aviation helps them craft policies that are equitable and easy to administer." Hoff reports that his group will be armed with NBAA advocacy resources including a study, video and Business Aviation Fact Book highlighting the value business aviation provides to citizens, companies and communities across the country. Learn more.

St. Louis Company's Expansion Highlights Business Aviation Value
A business aviation services company in the St. Louis area recently broke ground for a new, larger hangar, additional shop area and additional ramp area – a sign that even in a turbulent economy, companies still look to business aviation to provide a competitive advantage. "Newly lean companies continue to discover that efficiency is their key measuring stick, and that's what business aviation is all about," said John Morgenthaler Jr., partner and president of Aero Charter, Inc., based at Spirit of St Louis airport. Learn more.

UK VAT Changes Now In Effect
Starting tomorrow, the United Kingdom will implement changes regarding value added tax (VAT) policies, which will have the effect of eliminating the allowance for a zero VAT rating of aircraft over 8,000 kilograms (17,635 pounds) for operators that import their aircraft into the UK. The standard VAT rate in the UK will be increased from 17.5 percent to 20 percent. NBAA has previously reported on the situation. Get the details now.

Runway Closure Coming to Las Vegas Airport
Runway 25R/07L at Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS) will close on January 11 for the installation of a runway status light system (RWSL). The work is expected to be completed on March 7. Numerous taxiway closures will also be required during the installation process. A minimal impact to operations is expected as long as LAS can operate on the preferred configuration of arriving on Runways 1L and 25L and departing on Runway 1R. Operators should check NOTAMs prior to operation for the current runway status. For more information, contact gadesk@nbaa.org.

Two Florida Airports Implementing New Procedures
One new area navigation (RNAV) SID and two new RNAV STARs for Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), as well as five amended RNAV SIDs and four amended RNAV STARs for Tampa International Airport (TPA) will be published and implemented on January 13. The Tampa procedures are due to a change in magnetic variation resulting in changed courses and runway numbers. The only track changed is on the BLOND THREE RNAV STAR where TPA ATCT requested a change to the south operation runway transition. For more information, contact NBAA's Bob Lamond at rlamond@nbaa.org.

Join NBAA for SMS Meeting in Florida, Jan. 12–14
The use of safety management systems (SMS) by business aircraft operators to proactively identify and manage risks is an important part of a safety strategy for business aviation. Under a formalized SMS, operators identify potential hazards and ensure that a process is put in place to effectively manage them. NBAA will host an introduction to SMS at Banyan Air Service at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport from January 12 to 14. Learn more about the program.

Exhibit Space Available at Boca Raton, Upcoming Regional Forums
NBAA's Business Aviation Regional Forums are day-long learning and peer-networking venues designed to bring together local owners, operators, manufacturers, customers and other industry personnel. For exhibitors, the forums are an opportunity to connect with clients in their area. NBAA recently announced the schedule for Business Aviation Regional Forums in 2011, including Boca Raton, FL on February 17; Dallas, TX on April 14; White Plains, NY on June 8; and San Jose, CA on July 14. Learn more about exhibiting and sponsorships.

Attend NBAA's Business Aviation Leadership Conference
The NBAA Leadership Conference is a rare venue that provides business aviation leaders with tools for continued learning. Are you ready to become a more engaging leader? Join hundreds of the industry's leaders in San Diego to listen, learn and share. Conference speakers include Ed Bolen, NBAA president and CEO, Dr. Ken Blanchard, best-selling author of The One-Minute Manager, and more. Learn more about the speakers and conference details.

EBACE2011 Exhibitor Application Available Online
EBACE2011, the 11th consecutive European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition, will take place from May 17 to 19 in Geneva, Switzerland. Hosted each year by the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) and NBAA, the event features indoor exhibits, education sessions and a Static Display of Aircraft – all located at the Geneva Palexpo and Geneva International Airport. EBACE is the perfect venue for companies wanting to showcase the essential role business aviation plays in supporting jobs, mobility and economic opportunity in Europe. The Exhibitor application and more information are available online. Learn more.

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