The MEBAA Show, the Middle East’s leading business aviation platform, will return to Dubai in December showcasing the latest technologies, insights and business opportunities shaping the future of business aviation in the Middle East and across the globe.

Along with cutting-edge solutions and world-class aircraft on static display, the event, from December 8 to 10 at DWC, Airshow Site, will demonstrate, through a conference element, the key trends affecting the industry especially following the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

While commercial airlines are having a slow recovery, private-jet companies are seeing a surge in business from new customers. Private flights are running at up to 70% or more of normal according to recent studies. New customers are drawn to flying private because of health concerns and lower jet prices and this is driving the growth almost entirely, a statement said.

Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi, Founding and Executive Chairman of the Middle East & North Africa Business Aviation Association (MEBAA), commented: “We are excited to announce the return of the MEBAA Show, which will be one of the first aviation industry events to run in physical form this year. We are continually monitoring the Covid-19 situation and are working to ensure all appropriate health and safety measures are in place. The health and safety of our exhibitors, attendees, and staff is our top priority.

“The 2020 edition will highlight the tremendous opportunities that business aviation presents. It will also showcase the trends that the market is witnessing this year, and how we expect this to unfold in 2021 and subsequent years. By 2037, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific will be the fastest-growing markets, with an annual RPK growth rate of 5.7% . We look forward to demonstrating the opportunities that exist as well as welcoming delegates, partners and friends to Dubai once again for this key industry event,” added Alnaqbi.

It is expected that more than 7,000 new jets will enter the global private jet industry, of which 10% will be based in the Middle East and North Africa with 682 currently operating in the region. Despite the positive signs, the impact of Covid-19 has been profound and Alnaqbi has called on governments to ensure that business aviation is supported along with commercial aviation.

Alnaqbi recently highlighted that some business aviation firms are facing serious liquidity crunch following the pandemic. The MEBAA Chairman has highlighted that business aviation is a sector that complements commercial travel and can restart much quicker than airlines so must be included in government recovery plans. A key part of business aviation’s recovery and growth will be based on cooperation between traditional competitors, who must exchange knowledge, information and best practices.

By attending The MEBAA Show, organisations will have the chance to meet business aircraft manufacturers, avionics firms, completion centres, charter companies and aircraft resellers who will display their latest products and services, he said.