The annual European Business Aviation Conference and Exhibition (EBACE) has ended its three day run in Geneva, Switzerland. The event encompasses exhibits by a variety of vendors, a display of aircraft, and sessions on education, maintenance, and operations related to corporate jets. It’s the biggest event in the aviation industry in Europe. By all accounts, the show was a success again this year and has energized the industry with some exciting announcements.
Let’s take a look at the numbers:
- There were 12,353 attendees through the doors during the 3-day event
- 460 exhibitors, which was the 3rd highest number in EBACE history
- 52 aircraft were on display at the Static Display of Aircraft
- There were over 400 reporters in attendance, covering over 30 press conferences during the event
- Four companies received the Safety of Flight Award, in recognition of their commitment to safe operations.
One of the items introduced during EBACE2013 was the new Challenger 350 from Bombardier. Forbes is predicting the Challenger 350 will be a “winner in the resurging business aviation market.” The 350 has many improvements over its predecessor, the 300, including better performance and amenities. Bombardier will continue to offer the 300, and deliveries on the Challenger 350 will begin early next year.
Representatives from Cessna spoke during the conference and said that despite the financial trouble the EU has experienced over the last few years, they are confident that the market is set to rebound. If that’s true, it could point to growth in the aviation market. Cessna said they are still on target to start delivering their new Citation X by the end of the year.
EBACE remains one of the most important events in the European private jet industry. It’s a terrific opportunity for buyers and sellers to connect with the European market. The conference will return to Geneva, May 20-22, 2014 for its 14th year.