Aviation Conferences in the US to Pay Attention To
A Conference is a dynamic event that holds critical significance for any business. In the aviation industry, conferences lead to several outcomes that are only possible when people with different expertise come together. Even with similar themes, every conference experience is unique, making them an excellent learning opportunity. Conferences are about networking, expanding and improving knowledge, getting insights into the latest trends, and offering opportunities to meet peers and mentors.
Several aviation conferences happen throughout the year in the US, and while each conference promises some value, it would be impossible to attend them all. To help you prioritize which conferences to attend, we have categorized some of the most notable ones into four groups. Depending on what you hope to achieve and how wide your interest area is, here are four categories of aviation conferences to watch out for:
Major Aviation Conferences
Air Traffic Control Association (ATCA) Conference
The ATCA conferences address the issues integral to developing viable air traffic control systems and aviation infrastructures while meeting the ever-increasing demands on global airspace. The association is committed to ensuring progress in the science of air traffic control and the preservation of safe flights by bringing together different stakeholders in the aviation community. This includes air traffic control providers, system architects, manufacturers, suppliers, system operators, etc. In attendance at the conferences are both civilian and military members and global representatives.
National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Conference
Established in 1947 and based in Washington, DC, the NBAA is a leading organization offering support to companies that rely on general aviation aircraft to make their business more efficient and successful. It organizes conferences and other events that provide vital education and networking opportunities for those in the business aviation community. The conferences are centered on identifying and understanding advances in technology and procedures critical to the business aviation community. Upcoming NBAA conferences to look forward to include the 2023 NBAA PDP Course: Strategic Planning That Really Works in Hartford, CT, on May 1, 2023, and the NBAA Maintenance Conference in Hartford, CT beginning May 2-4, 2023.
PB Expo
The 2023 PB Expo is expected to occur on the 9th and 10th of March at the Miami Convention Center in Miami Beach. There will likely be 20,000 attendees and around 200 exhibitors from the aviation and aerospace industries. The conference is organized by PartsBase and aims to showcase innovations in technology and ecommerce solutions and how they can be integrated with the aviation, aerospace, and defense industries. In addition, by attending the PB Expo, you’ll get an opportunity to hear from key industry experts and insiders to discuss the aviation industry’s trends and best practices.
Aviation Week MRO Americas Conference
The MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) Americas Conference is set to return to Atlanta, Georgia, from April 18th -20th, 2023. This is the largest MRO event in the world and marks an exciting week in the aviation industry. The conference is the premier event for aviation repair, maintenance, and the aftermarket sector. It is also an opportunity to learn and exchange knowledge about new developments and trends, network with peers in the MRO industry, meet new vendors and suppliers, represent your organization and its expertise, and learn about the current business climate.
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh
The EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is the world’s largest and most diverse air show featuring aircraft as far as the eye can see both in the air and on the ground. There, you will find sports aircraft, warbirds, modern wide-body jets, aerobatic squadrons, and even air taxis. Since 1970, aviation enthusiasts worldwide have made the pilgrimage to the one-week event to witness spectacular airshows and industry trade shows featuring innovative products. Besides the air shows, other events to look forward to include forums, workshops and demonstrations, aerobatics, pyrotechnics, and concerts.
Regional Aviation Conferences
Great Alaska Aviation Gathering
This aviation event is dedicated to supporting the local general aviation community. It includes everything from getting kids excited about careers in aviation to awarding scholarships and supporting small businesses. In addition, the gathering features aviation-related vendors, including flight schools, parts suppliers, and aircraft manufacturers. The 2023 Great Alaska Aviation Gathering edition will be held on May 6 at the Alaska State Fairgrounds and Palmer Municipal Airport in Palmer, Alaska.
Northwest Aviation Conference & Trade Show
The Washington Aviation Association has organized the Northwest Aviation Conference & Trade Show for over three decades. The event supports the Northwest aviation industry by creating a space for sharing ideas, learning new skills, and networking for businesses, aircraft owners, and pilots.
AOPA Fly-Ins
This event offers fun, food, learning, and a chance to renew and forge new friendships. The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Fly-Ins provide the ultimate experience for pilots and aviation enthusiasts looking for an adventurous escape to the grassroots fun of general aviation (GA) flying. It is a two-day informal event where attendees can participate in educational seminars, exchange ideas, immerse in captivating aerial entertainment, and enjoy camaraderie around the campfire. The Fly-ins serve the interests of aircraft owners and pilots while promoting the economy, safety, utility, and popularity of flight in general aviation.
SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo
The 49th edition of the SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo is expected to take place from March 28 to April 3 in Lakeland, Florida. It is the largest fundraiser for the Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE), a 25-acre, 11-building campus dedicated to aerospace and STEM education. All proceeds from the event are directed to community initiatives and the Aerospace Center for Excellence. Some things you can expect to find at the event include display products such as vintage aircraft, experimental homebuilt air racers, and factory-built aircraft from all eras.
Women in Aviation Conferences
Women in Aviation International (WAI) Conference
This annual event was established by a non-profit organization encouraging women’s advancement in aviation career fields and interests. The WAI conference brings together more than 3,000 women passionate about aviation who want to learn, support, and mentor each other. Part of the event includes awarding scholarships to WAI members for academic use, lifestyle enhancement, and flight training. Since 1995, WAI has hosted more than $15.4 million in awarded scholarships.
International Aviation Womens Association (IAWA) Conference
This is the world’s leading women’s conference for the aviation and aerospace industry. It covers aviation operations, safety, infrastructure, manufacturing, customer experience, and more. Every year, various speakers pick a theme to be addressed during the conference and through interactive sessions.
Military Aviation Conferences
Air Force Association (AFA) Air, Space, & Cyber Conference
The conference provides an opportunity for first-class professional military development while facilitating the sharing of emerging requirements and technologies. It also helps fuel connections that lead to the advancement of air and space power. It brings together the top Air Force and Space Force leadership, industry experts, and government officials to brainstorm on the challenges facing the aerospace and cyber communities today and in the future.
Navy League Sea-Air-Space Exposition
This three-day event includes educational sessions, meaningful policy discussions, and dynamic exhibits that bring together the US defense industry and key military decision-makers. It is organized by the Navy League of the United States and is free for all qualified attendees.
Final Thoughts
Conferences can be an opportunity to do more than sit and listen to lectures. The conferences highlighted reveal how vital a resource these events are for aviation professionals to share knowledge, develop their careers, and even collaborate on research. The most fulfilling and impactful conferences are well-prepared and have a clear objective. This is a wake-up call for you to consider attending more of these events. They are not just for educators and researchers but also for the wider community to brainstorm, network, and make vital connections that can lead to new, more outstanding initiatives.