By Emily Younger Barnwell

The Partnership will lead a delegation of 13 local companies and organizations to the world’s largest business aviation event, the 2023 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), in Las Vegas from Oct. 17-19.

A consistent exhibitor since 2005, the Partnership boasts a rich history at the premier show, playing a vital role in cultivating and attracting new business to the Wichita region.

Andrew Nave, the Partnership’s executive vice president of economic development, expressed immense pride in the organization’s nearly two-decade-long engagement with NBAA-BACE, emphasizing the active promotion of the region’s robust aviation workforce, industry expertise and innovative technologies.

“This year, we are seizing the opportunity to spotlight more than a dozen local businesses, showcasing their unparalleled aviation expertise,” shared Nave.

The event anticipates participation from more than 800 NBAA-BACE exhibitors, poised to present cutting-edge aircraft, avionics, engines, propulsion technologies and other advanced products to more than 20,000 industry professionals, aircraft owners, manufacturers and customers.

As the No. 1 manufacturing metro in the United States and home to more than 450 world-class suppliers, the Air Capital of the World will have strong representation at the show. Several of the region’s largest aviation employers, notably Spirit AeroSystems and Textron Aviation, will operate their own booths and exhibits in addition to their partnership with the Air Capital of the World booth.

Furthermore, key economic development partners such as the City of Wichita, Sedgwick County and the Kansas Department of Commerce will be in attendance alongside the following local companies and organizations within the Air Capital of the World booth (N3913).

• Aerospace Systems & Components Inc.
• Aircraft Covers Unlimited
• Aviation Consulting & Engineering Solutions
• Bodycote
• Mid-Continent Aviation Services (MCAS)                                
• NIAR
• Ortega Aviation Services
• Park Aerospace
• Pinnacle Aerospace
• Southwind Global Aviation

Other sponsors include:

• Harvey County Economic Development
• Spirit AeroSystems
• Wichita Airport Authority