In the absence of this year’s NBAA show that was canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic, AIN is publishing remembrances of past conventions from captains of the industry to you, our readers. The responses highlight how the annual event resonates throughout the industry. To read more, go to the NBAA Memories landing page.
Don Baldwin, president and CEO of Baldwin Aviation
Business aviation has been in my blood since birth. As my father was a business aviation leader, it was only natural that it became a way of life for me. My five decades have seen a lot of change with people in our industry and technology’s amazing advances.
The annual conventions are the one event that brings everyone and everything together in one place. I experienced my first convention in 1978 in St. Louis. I have not missed one since. I was a corporate copilot then and was awed by the aircraft and technology on the convention floor and static display at that time. I attended many sessions and was inspired by the people presenting on important subjects and issues in our industry.
During my career, I participated on several association committees and eventually elected to sit on the NBAA board of directors. I experienced the annual conventions in different roles, from different perspectives: that of a new copilot, captain, chief pilot, aviation manager, and eventually as a member of the NBAA board. Every year was different. For the past 15 years, I have attended the convention as an exhibitor, presenting our safety and compliance company, which is yet another experience and perspective of this global event.
Some of my most memorable moments: meeting and chatting with John Glenn and Neil Armstrong at an event, being elected to the NBAA board, and reconnecting with friends and industry leaders every year.
The NBAA convention has been a significant part of my life for a long time. Many memories have been lodged in my memory and I look forward to the future as new leadership emerges. I will be there to watch and mentor this new generation of business aviation professionals.
