EBACE 2025: A Transformative Leap for European Business Aviation

Photo Credit: courtesy of EBACE

The European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) 2025, held from May 20-22 at Geneva’s Palexpo convention center, concluded with an electrifying sense of momentum and purpose. As the first edition solely orchestrated by the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) following its split from the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) in 2024, EBACE 2025 unveiled a bold new identity. With thousands of attendees from 111 countries, the event cemented its role as Europe’s leading platform for business aviation, fostering innovation, collaboration, and a forward-looking vision for the industry.

A Reimagined Platform for Connection and Progress

EBACE 2025 marked a significant departure from tradition, reflecting the EBAA’s ambition to tailor the event to the evolving needs of the business aviation community. The event kicked off with a vibrant Welcome Celebration, uniting delegates, exhibitors, and partners in a dynamic atmosphere of anticipation. “Since taking over the running of EBACE from NBAA in late 2024, we’ve had a real opportunity to reshape the event to reflect the wishes of exhibitors and attendees and act as a building block for future exhibitions,” said Robert Baltus, EBAA’s Chief Operating Officer. This sentiment underscored the event’s reimagined format, which prioritized meaningful connections over spectacle.

The exhibition floor buzzed with activity, featuring a streamlined layout with three dedicated stages: Flight Daily News Live, AIROPS, and Innovation & Sustainability. These stages hosted insightful sessions on critical topics, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) adoption, regulatory challenges, and the rise of advanced air mobility (AAM). The AIROPS stage, tailored for ground and flight operators, offered practical discussions on charter market trends and safety protocols, while the Innovation & Sustainability stage showcased advancements like autonomous flight and eVTOL concepts. “We are delighted to bring SAF to EBACE again this year,” noted Joao Martins, Vice President of FBO Operations in Europe and GM Zurich at Jet Aviation, highlighting the industry’s commitment to sustainability.

Networking was elevated to new heights, with five strategically placed lounges and private meeting pods fostering B2B interactions. Exhibitors, ranging from established manufacturers to market disruptors, leveraged these spaces to unveil cutting-edge technologies, from advanced avionics to eco-friendly propulsion systems. Attendees praised the event’s modernized design and focus on fostering collaboration, with one exhibitor noting, “EBACE 2025 has set a new standard for how we connect and drive business forward in Europe.”

Addressing Challenges with Strategic Vision

While the event was a resounding success, it faced some challenges. The decision to eliminate the traditional static aircraft display, a popular fixture of past EBACE editions, sparked mixed reactions. “As the leading show for business aviation in Europe, we want to ensure our format delivers for everyone who is present at EBACE. We have listened carefully to feedback from our community and those calling for change,” said Holger Krahmer, EBAA Secretary General. While the move aimed to create a more inclusive and cost-effective platform, some attendees missed the visual impact of aircraft like the Gulfstream G700 or ACJ TwoTwenty. The smaller exhibition floor, a consequence of the EBAA’s transition to sole management, also felt less expansive than previous years. However, the vibrant atmosphere and positive exhibitor feedback mitigated these critiques, affirming the EBAA’s strategic direction.

The conference agenda was a highlight, addressing pressing industry issues with depth and clarity. Sessions explored fleet trends, European market growth, and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Regulatory discussions focused on the implications of ReFuelEU and the need for coordinated advocacy with European policymakers. The EBAA’s leadership in these conversations was evident, reinforcing its role as a unifying force for the industry.

Uncertainty and Opportunity for EBACE 2026

As EBACE 2025 drew to a close, uncertainty about the 2026 event’s location cast a shadow of intrigue. Geneva’s Palexpo, the event’s home for over two decades, is under review as the EBAA evaluates alternative venues based on cost, accessibility, and stakeholder feedback. A press conference scheduled for June 30, 2025, will announce the final decision, with potential dates in late May or early June 2026. Alternate potential locations are rumoured to be London, Paris and Barcelona amongst others. This uncertainty reflects the EBAA’s commitment to ensuring EBACE remains a dynamic, stakeholder-driven platform. “We’re not just hosting an event; we’re building a future for European business aviation,” Baltus emphasized, signalling the EBAA’s ambition to refine EBACE’s format further.

A Foundation for Future Growth

EBACE 2025 was more than a successful trade show; it was a transformative milestone. The event’s reimagined format, focus on sustainability, and emphasis on meaningful connections resonated deeply with attendees. Longstanding exhibitors praised its continued relevance, noting that it laid a strong foundation for growth under the EBAA’s leadership. As the industry departed Geneva, there was a palpable sense of optimism and direction.

The EBAA extended gratitude to exhibitors, speakers, delegates, sponsors, and media partners who made EBACE 2025 a success. With its bold new identity, the event has redefined what EBACE can be, setting the stage for an even stronger return in 2026. As European business aviation navigates a rapidly evolving landscape, EBACE remains its premier platform for innovation, connection, and leadership.