Drawing over 2,000 trade attendees to Singapore's Changi Exhibition Centre in March 2025, the inaugural Business Aviation Asia Forum and Expo (BAAFEx) has positioned itself as a key catalyst for the future growth of the region's business aviation sector
Event brief
“As the business aviation landscape continues to evolve, we wanted the show to drive industry growth through innovation and collaboration, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region where business jet activity continues to show steady growth,” said Leck Chet Lam, managing director of Experia Events, which also organises the biennial Singapore Airshow.
The aim was to enable a diverse mix of exhibitors to engage buyers and trade visitors, and also provide a comprehensive conference programme and extensive networking opportunities.
Event highlights
The indoor exhibition featuring more than 50 companies showed the latest range of products in the business aviation industry, including aircraft systems, technology and services. The compact presentation enabled more fruitful meetings.
Meanwhile, the popular static aircraft display on the tarmac enabled visitors to board cutting-edge business jets from Amber Aviation, Dassault Aviation and Vista.
Supporting dedicated platforms like BAAFEx, Ian Moore, chief commercial officer at Vista, noted that the business aviation industry thrives on having its own space to engage with potential clients and peers meaningfully.
In addition, 12 conference sessions saw 46 industry experts sharing insights on topics such as market trends, including aircraft charters; regulatory changes and safety; innovations in inflight connectivity; advances in maintenance, repair and overhaul and fixed-base operators; and future strategies.
Recognising concerns and criticism over aviation’s carbon footprint, BAAFEx ensured there was a sustainability panel where experts discussed the potential of electric aviation, carbon offsetting programmes, adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and eco-friendly flight operations.
Exhibitors also presented advanced solutions including SAF, carbon-offsetting programmes, and more fuel-efficient aircraft.
Among sustainable practices at the event were QR codes and digital platforms for entry and event information, lanyards made of eco-friendly materials, water dispensers on the showfloor, recycled carpets and proper waste management procedures. Changi Exhibition Centre’s solar power and energy-efficient LED lighting also reinforced the environmental considerations.
Besides networking at the venue, attendees mingled well at the welcome party at Zouk. They also showed their zest was not only at the exhibition hall but also on the dance floor.
Challenges
The organisers knew that launching a new business aviation expo in Asia would be challenging, given apprehension over Singapore’s higher operating costs, which some saw as a potential drawback.
However, with Singapore’s efficiency, strong infrastructure, operational reliability and strategic location giving it a competitive advantage, Experia Events parried the initial scepticism with a solid offering.
BAAFEx went on to attract a high-level audience, fostering quality business engagements, and delivering tangible business opportunities.
To soften the cost impact, foreign delegates could use Experia Hospitality Services to book hotel accommodation at exclusive rates and arrange for transportation and tours.
Declaring BAAFEx’s strong debut a success, Leck said it brought together a high-calibre network of sponsors, exhibitors and trade visitors despite market headwinds.
“The event surpassed initial expectations, and the overwhelming interest in aircraft displays will be incorporated into future editions. This successful foundation paves the way for significant growth with greater representation across various segments,” he said.
Event Business Aviation Asia Forum and Expo 2025
Organiser Experia Events
Venue Changi Exhibition Centre
Date March 4-6, 2025
Attendance Over 2,000 industry professionals, about 47 per cent from overseas
