Type Club Meeting, Bonanza XTRA Among Reasons to Stop by NBAA’s Tent
July 7, 2011
The eyes of the aviation world will turn later this month to Oshkosh, WI, home of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s (EAA’s) annual AirVenture extravaganza. In what has also become a yearly tradition, NBAA will again have its big white tent right along the flight line, where Members and non-Members alike are encouraged to stop by and say hello.
“Our doors are open!” said Chris Strong, Vice President, Membership Marketing for NBAA. “We want people to come in and ask questions about using their aircraft for business. We want to hear their stories.”
NBAA staff will be on hand throughout the event to explain benefits and services available from the organization. Operations personnel will also be on hand, to answer any aircraft ownership and operational questions attendees may have.
For the second year, NBAA will also host an informal gathering for members of aircraft type clubs, an example of a growing partnership between these organizations and NBAA. “Type clubs are an important part of the culture of this industry,” Strong says. “This is an opportunity to exchange handshakes and ideas.”
As an added bonus this year, a special aircraft will be displayed outside the NBAA tent. Wichita, Kansas-based aircraft manufacturer Hawker Beechcraft has provided a Bonanza XTRA fitted with all the latest technology, including a Garmin G500 glass panel flight deck and thoroughly updated interior.
The XTRA is a factory upgrade program offering owners of older A36s the enhanced performance, capabilities, and interior treatments of newer models. These accessories are available in bundled packages, or as individual upgrades.
Strong notes the high-performance piston single is a workhorse for many owner-operators using a general aviation airplane for business. “Our experience is a lot of folks are using this kind of aircraft,” he says. “The Midwestern doctor, for example, who flies to outlying towns to see patients.”
“Sixty-nine percent of NBAA’s operating members use light airplanes for business purposes,” he explains. “We need to communicate with those folks where they gather. Oshkosh brings together those who not only are passionate about aviation, but also understand the business value of the aircraft.”
Strong is quick to add those who don’t operate their aircraft on business, or who aren’t members of NBAA, are also welcome to visit. “We’re right on the flight line,” he says. “Members and non-members alike can join in the shade and watch the show.
“Also, cold drinks will be available,” Strong adds, in what is sure to be an enticing offer to those walking across the show grounds in the summer heat.
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.