NBAA GO Flight Operations Conference (Virtual)

10 a.m. – 11 a.m. EST

Dedicated Exhibit Time

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. EST

Scheduling 101: Intro to Scheduling

This session covers the coordination of a typical domestic trip, providing you tips and best practices for common operational challenges. Attendees will learn trip-building basics, such as the benefits of utilizing checklists and importance of developing productive relationships with key stakeholders (e.g., executive assistants and customer service representatives). Do you know the military alphabet that is used in aviation? Do you know the differences between a turboprop, light jet, mid-size and super-size jet? Do you know if you will need a fuel stop on your proposed trip? Do you know how many passengers can fly non-stop on each of your aircraft? Do you know how much baggage each of your aircraft can carry with passengers? Do you know what FBO stands for? If your answer is “no” to any of these questions, then this is the session for you.

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. EST

Post COVID-19: Best Practices for Crewmembers

Living and working during a pandemic brings new challenges to the forefront, especially when attempting to mitigate further risk. Safely operating aircraft in this environment forces us to innovate and reconsider procedures and protocols to ensure the utmost in safety for passengers and crewmembers. It is critical to understand best practices in mitigating risks that might escalate and present even greater issues, in an effort to manage events to provide the best possible outcome. Engage with a panel comprised of fellow operators and industry leaders who offer their perspective and lessons learned, as they have pivoted into this new environment. Understand the challenges faced, the trends to minimize risk, and the impact of the pandemic itself on crewmembers, as well as owners and passengers.

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. EST

Managing Your Carbon Footprint

Sustainability is more than a buzzword these days in business aviation! In 2021, managing your carbon footprint requires a multi-faceted approach to blend regulatory compliance (EU-ETS, CORSIA, UK-ETS, SWISS-ETS) with sustainable emissions reduction goals (SAF and Voluntary Carbon Offset). This knowledgeable panel of regulators and subject matter experts will discuss each of those topics in detail, covering important dates, requirements, available tools, best practices and more.

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. EST

Regional Review: North Atlantic/North America

The North Atlantic is moving towards increased reliance on controller-pilot data link communications (CPDLC) route clearance uplink reroutes, or as it is sometimes referred to “Push to Load.” The CPDLC message format is confusing and has resulted in a high error rate. This session will illustrate the format in detail to help business aircraft operators meet the challenge presented by this new procedure. The session will also cover the North Atlantic in the year of COVID, including the changes in traffic flow and an account of when the New York Oceanic Center was shut down briefly and went ATC-Zero. Finally, this session will touch upon the basics – and nuances – of cross-border operations between the U.S. and Canada, as well as within Canada, to include customs, CANPASS, cabotage and more.

1 p.m. – 2 p.m. EST

Dedicated Exhibit Time

2 p.m. – 3 p.m. EST

Keynote: Adapt, Overcome and Win as One!

Presented by: Robyn Benincasa

If there’s one thing we can all count on right now, it’s that we are in a time of change. Our response to ongoing change dictates our success. So how do leaders inspire the kind of mindset and build the kind of teams that drive organizations to adapt, overcome and win as ONE, in the face of times of extreme challenge and change? In this unique, authentic and fast-paced multimedia keynote – inspired by a Fast Company Magazine feature story about Benincasa’s World Champion Adventure Racing team entitled “Extreme Teamwork” – Benincasa shares the “5 Secrets to Extreme Performance” that can be applied to the adventures in our personal and business lives.

3 p.m. – 4 p.m. EST

Dedicated Exhibit Time

4 p.m. – 5 p.m. EST

Celebrating Women in Aviation

2020 has taken a toll on people and companies across the industry and new research indicates that the global pandemic has negatively impacted women in particular. Join panelists for a conversation with industry leaders about why supporting and retaining women in the workforce now is critical for the next generation and how companies can address the core challenges women are facing.

4 p.m. – 5 p.m. EST

Conflict Resolution: For Every Action, There Is a Reaction

Adaptability and flexibility are required skills to achieve and maintain success in business aviation. The past year has tested these traits to the point of exhaustion. We’ve been forced to learn how to remain connected to our teams while remaining physically distant. Individuals reacted to these challenges in a variety of ways, based on their situational interpretations. While we cannot control the pandemic, we can control our reactions, by how we listen and support ourselves and each other. Because our behaviors are driven by our thoughts and emotions – which drive our perceptions – stressors, conflicts and distractions are all to be expected. This session, coordinated by the NBAA Flight Attendants Committee, will help you learn how to navigate through these current hurdles, as well as when we all begin to reset our mindsets and operations – post-pandemic.

4 p.m. – 5 p.m. EST

Scheduling 202: Scheduling Best Practices

We all have our own tricks of the trade. Hear from some of our industry’s best, representing flight departments of all sizes, as they discuss key topics such as the importance of onboarding new employees, managing coverage after hours, multi-tasking without losing focus and more. Presenters will also discuss ways to evolve communication and collaboration in the flight department. Attendees will have the opportunity to submit questions and are encouraged to share their own experiences and solutions.

4 p.m. – 5 p.m. EST

Regional Review: South America and Brazil

South America and Brazil remain an important market for business aviation and business travel. In addition to an in-depth overview of operations in South America and Brazil, the panel will provide an update on the socio-economic changes that are impacting aviation policies in this South American region.

5 p.m. – 6 p.m. EST

E-Plotting Gotchas, Solutions and Techniques

As technology is developing at a fast pace, operators need to evolve procedures as well. This session will help operators adapt to the complexity and depth of new e-plotting technologies, while ensuring crews will not lose situational awareness and capability. This session will discuss the performance and capabilities expected by the FAA when replacing paper plotting charts.

5 p.m. – 6 p.m. EST

Professionalism in Action

Experts from NBAA’s Domestic Operations Committee and NBAA’s Safety Committee will discuss what it means to be a professional. The session will include practical examples of how focusing on professionalism can increase safety, offering best practices for everyone from line staff to department managers on how best to address issues within their flight operations. Specific topics will include safety promotion, standard operating procedures, internal communication and speaking with the flight department principal. Join in the discussion about the challenges every business aviation flight operation wrestles with.

5 p.m. – 6 p.m. EST

Regional Review: Africa

During this session subject matter experts and experienced operators will deliver the latest updates for the region. Experts will share their experiences traveling throughout Africa, including detailed reviews of airspace/flight information region (FIR) considerations, weather, letters of authority (LOAs) and U.S. restrictions/sanctions.

5 p.m. – 6 p.m. EST

Complying with Pilot Records Database Requirements

The FAA recently published the final rule governing the pilot records database. This rule will affect all pilots and commercial operations. Hear from regulatory experts about what this means for you and your operations. What information will the FAA make available? What will you be required to submit? How can you make corrections? What will potential employers be able to see?

6 p.m. – 7 p.m. EST

Professional Member Happy Hour & Live Virtual Magic Show

Grab your favorite beverage and join us for a LIVE virtual magic show featuring world-class magicians and mentalists, Harrison Kramer and Adrian Lacroix. This event is available exclusively to NBAA Professional members. For more information, contact membership@nbaa.org.

10 a.m. – 11 p.m. EST

Future-Proofing Your Flight Department

Sponsored Thought Leader Session by Embraer
Four flight department leaders share their views regarding how the pandemic and sustainability demands will affect their operations and day-to-day procedures in the coming years. Panelists will discuss strategies for preparing for new technologies including FAA DataComm and connectivity solutions.

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. EST

Weather Happens….

This session will discuss the effects of differing weather conditions on aircraft operations with a high-level review of charts, weather patterns, forecasting, flight releases and more to optimize your operation’s safety. In addition, subject matter experts will give an overview of the tools and resources available through the FAA’s Air Traffic Services.

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. EST

Regulatory Update

Everyone’s favorite session is back (no, really!), but this year it has grown. This panel of FAA and industry experts will provide updates on regulatory issues impacting both domestic and international operations, including the ongoing D095 vs D195 MEL conundrum. Find out what has changed and what hasn’t. Learn about the results of FAA’s efforts to streamline the FAA LOA process. Now that Brexit finally happened, find out what that means for your operations.

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. EST

Communicating Effectively With Your Team

Don’t get siloed! When confronting operational circumstances maximizing cross-departmental communication is critical to achieving successful outcomes. Our panel of industry veterans will draw on their decades of experience to share stories and best practices about meeting objectives through overcoming communication breakdowns. Panelists will discuss ideas for flight departments to encourage team spirit and working collaboratively versus individual silos – pilots vs. maintenance vs. schedulers/dispatchers vs. cabin crew vs. management.

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. EST

Regional Review: Europe

Europe continues to be one of the most popular destinations for business aviation flights. This session will focus on what your flight department needs to know in order to operate safely in this region. Subject area experts will cover topics including pre-trip planning, common “gotchas,” significant hazards, ground considerations, cabotage concerns, intra-European travel, upcoming major events and regulatory/mandated updates.

1 p.m. – 2 p.m. EST

myairops and Microsoft Tech-Talk: The Importance of Automation and Advanced Technologies in Business Aviation

Join myairops and Microsoft for a discussion on how the business aviation, transport and travel industries are using cutting-edge technologies and automation to deliver efficiencies, collaborative working and business optimization. Explore the importance of the cloud and the resilience it provides, as well as how tech is empowering remote working during a time when employees are more displaced than ever.

2 p.m. – 3 p.m. EST

Day 2 Keynote

3 p.m. – 4 p.m. EST

SAF – What It Is and Why It’s Key to Making Aviation More Sustainable Today

Governments, passengers and companies are increasingly pressuring the aviation industry to reduce its carbon footprint. Business aviation is no exception. Solving this challenge is easier than you may think. In this session, you will learn why sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) provides the best way for the business aviation industry to reduce its sector emissions right now in a meaningful, impactful and lasting way. Neste, a leading producer of SAF, will explain the climate benefits of SAF, how it’s made, where it’s available, and why it’s fully compatible with existing jet engine technology and fuel distribution infrastructure when blended with fossil jet fuel. Additionally, Avfuel will also share their experiences and insights on the introduction of SAF into their operations and service offerings.

4 p.m. – 5 p.m. EST

Oceanic Flight Best Practices

Mitch Launius and Steve Thorpe will host an interactive discussion on some of the most frequently asked questions regarding oceanic SOP best practices. This discussion will explore why, in the age of digital technology, we continue to employ procedures based on age-old practices. In order to bring proven policies and procedures into the digital age. It is vital to understand the true value of these best practices. Greater understanding of the “why” and “how” behind SOPs will lead to improved compliance and reduce errors.

4 p.m. – 5 p.m. EST

Practicing Inclusion: Actions Speak Louder than Words

Diverse and inclusive companies drive innovative results, yet half of global businesses surveyed in a recent PwC study acknowledge challenges due to inclusivity issues in the workplace. For organizations working to strengthen their diversity and inclusion programs and policies, changes can be challenging – and rewarding. Hear from industry leaders about their perspectives; learn about NBAA’s internal and external initiatives; and strengthen leadership through diversity and inclusion within your company or flight department.

4 p.m. – 5 p.m. EST

It’s Not That SIFL: Intro to Taxes

Are you overwhelmed by the legal and financial requirements and regulations facing business aircraft operators? In this session, regulatory experts will break down the key concepts, components and terminology as they relate to passenger usage of business aircraft. These topics will be discussed in an easy-to-understand format, suitable for those of all experience levels. Topics will include IRS disallowance, introduction to leases and time share agreements and engaging with your company’s tax experts.

4 p.m. – 5 p.m. EST

Regional Review: China, Russia and the Stans

This session will provide an in-depth look into trip planning and safely operating throughout China, Russia and the “Stans.” The panel of experts will address the best practices you need to know while planning and flying trips in these challenging regions. You will learn what to expect when flying into the most popular destinations, regulatory requirements, lead times, security concerns, PPR/operational curfews and SMS considerations.

5 p.m. – 6 p.m. EST

Oceanic Contingency Procedures

Effective Nov. 5 2020, ICAO implemented important new guidance with Amendment 9 to ICAO Doc 4444 Procedures for Air Navigation Air Traffic Management (PANS-ATM). The discussions in this session will be focused on the harmonization of global oceanic contingency procedures to include weather deviation contingencies. These changes are significant and reflect the completion of a trial program that began in the North Atlantic on March 29, 2019. Don’t miss this critical update.

5 p.m. – 6 p.m. EST

Technology Etiquette

Techno-Etiquette teaches the protocols for the considerate and appropriate use of business devices. Enter the online, cellular, hi-tech world with protocol and decorum. This session, coordinated by the NBAA Flight Attendants Committee, also discusses the appropriate use of social media and its effect on your personal brand and that of your company.

5 p.m. – 6 p.m. EST

It’s More Than SIFL: Advanced Taxes

Expanding on the topics covered in “It’s Not That SIFL: Intro to Taxes,” this interactive session will dive deeper into the regulatory considerations most important to business aircraft operators. Panel members will discuss real-life scenarios, offer tips on useful resources and engage the audience to answer relevant questions.

5 p.m. – 6 p.m. EST

Regional Review: Southeast Asia and the Pacific

During this session, subject matter experts and experienced operators will deliver the latest updates on this extremely large and diverse region. Firsthand knowledge will be shared regarding the most commonly used destinations in Southeast Asia and Australia. The Pacific Oceanic Airspace will also be covered from several perspectives.

10 a.m. – 11 a.m. EST

Dedicated Exhibit Time

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. EST

Unchartered Territory: A New Part 135 “Normal”

Part 135 operators of all experience levels will benefit from this in-depth look at common operational components, including meeting aircraft and crew member requirements, tips for efficiently acquiring Ops Specs, best practices for recordkeeping, guidelines for staffing/training, and the latest safety procedures. You’ll also hear about international freedoms of the air, cabotage, charter permit lead times and which countries do not require a charter permit.

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. EST

Great Unexpectations

What happens in real life when your emergency response plan is engaged? Will your actions and responses really match your preparation and planning? Aviation professionals and emergency response team members will share their real-life emergency experiences – “gotchas” and all – to help you to avoid them. This session can help your team identify new challenges that should be addressed by your SMS, ERP and safety culture.

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. EST

Business Aviation Security Best Practices

In a COVID-19 environment traditional security challenges across the world have changed – in some cases radically. Challenges facing operators in 2021 include no-notice entry requirement changes; sudden and extended airport/airspace closures; dramatic decreases in commercial airline flights/seat availability; and unexpected, extended stays away from home – sometimes by weeks and months. Real-world examples will be shared to help you build a security management mindset.

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. EST

Regional Review: Mexico, Cuba and the Caribbean

This increasingly popular region continues to introduce a variety of changes and potential pitfalls for business aircraft operators. This session will cover airport considerations, operational highlights and local challenges for key destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean, Cuba and Central America. The seasoned and experienced panel will provide insights and tips on regional CNS/ATM developments, NextGen, security, weather and best practices for planning and executing a successful trip to and from this beautiful region.

1 p.m. – 2 p.m. EST

Dedicated Exhibit Time

2 p.m. – 3 p.m. EST

Day 3 Keynote

3 p.m. – 4 p.m. EST

Dedicated Exhibit Time

4 p.m. – 5 p.m. EST

US and Canada Customs: A Cross-Border Affair

This panel of regulatory experts will review best practices related to cross-border travel and share updates on initiatives affecting the future direction of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

4 p.m. – 5 p.m. EST

Airport Assessment 101

The last thing an operator needs is to land at an airport that does not have the proper infrastructure or services to handle their type of aircraft. After you land, do you run the risk of the aircraft damaging the runway due to its weight, or sinking into the asphalt on the ramp? How can you determine adequate weather minima if an airport does not have instrument approaches? Is the airport suitable for night operations? How do you assess airport security infrastructure? This session discusses all of these considerations – and more – that operators should review before flying to an airport for the first time. This session will examine how dispatch and flightcrew can collaborate effectively on the mission planning of an airport assessment. Learn which questions are the right ones to ask, how to use effective checklists and what tools and resources are available to make proper assessments.

4 p.m. – 5 p.m. EST

Navigating the Aircraft Onboarding Process

Acquiring an aircraft, whether new or used, can be both exciting and challenging. There are many steps, gateways and hurdles to overcome to experience a successful launch. Watch out for pitfalls! From operational considerations, to legal and financial concerns, learn from an experienced panel of operators and industry experts who will help guide you through these issues and set you on a clear path for takeoff.

5 p.m. – 6 p.m. EST

Sham Dry Lease or Legitimate Leasing Structure?

The FAA has recently increased scrutiny of dry lease arrangements – in particular non-exclusive dry leases – in their efforts to curb the use of “sham dry leases” as a mechanism for conducting illegal charter. To aid the business aviation community, a team from the NBAA’s Regulatory Issues Advisory Group assembled a best practices guide for implementing and executing dry leases. Learn what red flags the FAA is looking for in your lease, how to avoid them and how to ensure your ownership structure is legal.

5 p.m. – 6 p.m. EST

Debrief Me!

This session examines the need to have effective processes in place for collaborating, sharing and collecting valuable feedback and data between flight crew, dispatch and other members in your department. This includes managing feedback from clients, passengers and executive admins. You’ll learn how to ask for feedback and how to analyze it – ensuring the right tools are being used for maximum efficiency. After this session, you’ll have strategies for soliciting feedback to help improve future missions and customer satisfaction.

5 p.m. – 6 p.m. EST

International Operations: Ask the Experts

An entire flock of regulators, experts, instructors, international trip planners and international crewmembers are gathering together to answer live questions. This is your one-stop shop to learn the answer to all of your burning international operations questions.

5 p.m. – 6 p.m. EST

Regional Review: India and the Middle East

India and the Middle East are key business aviation destinations on their own, plus, the routes over the region are popular for over-flights between Europe/Africa and East Asia. This combination makes the area from the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea to the Indian subcontinent a large and important zone for the business aviation industry. The session will cover the latest hot topics, the “gotchas” that can be encountered while flying there and special regional weather considerations. This session will be presented in an engaging and fun game show format.