EBACE 2012 easily quelled any lingering doubts that business aviation has gone global.
Despite the economic downturn, companies from across the globe descended on Geneva to announce new products, meet with existing and prospective customers, and interact with the aviation community at large.Bombardier had a huge presence at EBACE, announcing progress on its Global products and launching two new Learjets.Helicopter manufacturers were in bigger force at EBACE than ever. European manufacturer Agusta was showing off its latest hardware, but it was hardly alone. Three other rotary wing manufacturers had prime time real estate on manufacturers row, too.Honda announced progress with its HondaJet program, which is now on track for a 2013 certification.Home team Pilatus was at EBACE, showing off its Alps-ready PC-12.When in need, bring your own jetway along with you.Boeing had not one but two BBJs at the show. Europe has proven a strong market for the business finished 737.Learjet president Steve Ridolfi announces two new Learjets, the models 70 and 75 that bring new technologies and new capabilities to the former 40 and 45 light jets.Engines and tails at the convenient static display at EBACE. Manufacturers rave about the proximity of the static display to their booths. (Journalists like it too.)Can you say “Let’s go to the Alps?” Swiss-based Pilatus brought a turbo Porter on skis.Cessna had a huge presence at the show with nearly a dozen airplanes, from Caravans to mid-size jets.When there’s a shortage of shade, create your own. Dassault employees manning a golden Falcon 900LX on the ramp at EBACE.Heli-Expo Euro edition? Pretty close. Bell was at EBACE, too, with a gorgeous example of its popular 429 do-everything ship.Cessna had a gorgeous mockup of its newly launched Longitude long range jet. The $26 million cruiser will boast a range of 4,000 nm.Eurocopter was on hand with its new EC135 twin.Embraer had a mockup of the emerging Legacy 500 mid-sized jet at the show. The 500 is looking for cert in 2013, which promises to be a watershed year for new airplane approvals.**Visitors strolled through the show’s exhibit hall.
**For more on EBACE, check out Robert Goyer’s report from the show.
