NBAA-BACE Flight Deck to Feature Sessions on Cybersecurity, AI, MRO and AAM at Oct. 20–22 Convention
Why It MattersThe programming signals that business aviation is treating cyber risk, technician shortages and eVTOL infrastructure readiness as near-term operational priorities rather than future concerns.
The National Business Aviation Association's Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition, scheduled for Oct. 20-22, 2026, will run a series of expert-led sessions on its exhibit-floor Flight Deck stage covering cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, maintenance capacity, advanced air mobility, aircraft transactions and career development. NBAA Interim COO Dan Hubbaard described the Flight Deck as the venue where business aviation comes together to define the industry's future, addressing both opportunities and challenges while offering attendees practical guidance.
On Tuesday, Oct. 20, a 10:30-11:30 a.m. panel will examine cyberthreats facing Part 91 and 135 operators, including ransomware, data breaches, business email compromise and third-party vendor vulnerabilities, alongside a session on an industrywide standard operating procedure initiative led by NBAA, FlightSafety and CAE to reduce SOP-related accidents. A separate session will address MRO capacity, covering technician shortages, aging facilities and consolidation trends, while a 2:45-3:15 p.m. session will outline FAA timelines for C-band spectrum auctions tied to the radio altimeter mandate.
Further Flight Deck sessions will bring together operational leaders, maintenance experts and AI specialists to discuss human oversight and AI applications in aviation, and others will cover how airports and FBOs can adapt infrastructure to support electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, plus a fireside chat on career development. On Thursday, Oct. 22, the Flight Deck will host NBAA Collegiate Connect, a full-day event introducing students to professional development strategies and career opportunities in business aviation. The program runs alongside the convention's new Horizon Stage, featuring industry icons, government leaders and award presentations.
