NBAA Annual Conference-2010-Day 2

Day two has been fairly similar to day one.  The convention floor foot traffic was perhaps slightly less than on day one, but not low enough that exhibitors had time to visit each other’s booths.  Last year at this point, that was 25% of the foot traffic. 

Talking with avionics manufacturers was fairly educational.  Most have downsized at least once in the last three years.  That down-sizing has actually resulted in fairly healthy companies.  Most have seen a pickup in small modifications and parts and services sales this year as compared to 2009.  The major suppliers are waiting expectantly for the aircraft OEM’s picture to improve.  Most expect that 2012 will the year for real improvement.  Honeywell is predicting a less than spectacular recovery over the next five years. 

The used aircraft market is finally beginning to burn into the excess inventory, but prices are still restrained.  One of the more prominent market features is the number of firms offering web-based intelligence on sales prices and market demand for used aircraft. 

A notable presence is the number of firms highlighting airborne connectivity.  Both equipment and service providers were competing for attention.  The general impression at the show was that this was finally the time for active interest.  The dilemma is the restrained spending for everything, but the demand is definitely increasing.

Unlike past years, there were no significant day two announcements of sales or new products.