In corporate aviation, the safety and well-being of those who make every flight possible are just as important as technology and operational efficiency. The 2025 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), taking place October 14-16 in Las Vegas, will bring together the industry’s key players to discuss the major challenges facing business aviation. Among them, single-pilot mental health stands out as a critical issue, increasingly recognized as essential to flight safety.
The role of the single pilot carries one of the greatest responsibilities in executive aviation. Beyond technical skills, this position demands an immense emotional and psychological load. At NBAA-BACE 2025, experts will address strategies, research, and best practices to strengthen pilot resilience, while also underscoring the importance of ensuring that every logistical detail on the ground is managed effectively so pilots can focus fully on flying safely.
NBAA-BACE: A key event for global business aviation
NBAA-BACE is recognized as the most influential global event in business aviation, and its 2025 edition is set to exceed expectations. With more than 20,000 attendees expected, around 800 exhibitors, nearly 75 training sessions, and over 50 aircraft on display, the convention stands as the must-attend gathering for professionals, companies, and industry leaders. For three days, Las Vegas will become the world capital of BizAv, where trends are set and today’s challenges are addressed.
This year’s topics revolve around critical issues such as operational safety, leadership in team management, risk management in a complex environment, and an increasingly important topic on the agenda, mental health in aviation and pilot well-being, especially in single-pilot aviation. This comprehensive approach highlights how business aviation is advancing not only in technology but also in caring for the people who make it possible.
The silent challenge of the single pilot in aviation
Single-pilot operations occur when a single pilot assumes full responsibility for operating the aircraft, without the assistance of a co-pilot. This model is particularly common in corporate aviation, where many owners or executives not only fly their planes but also balance this role with the daily management of their companies.
The challenge goes beyond the technical control of the aircraft. A single pilot must make critical real-time decisions, monitor systems, interpret weather conditions, maintain smooth communication with air traffic controllers, and simultaneously manage their own stress levels. Without a co-pilot, the entire workload falls on one person, increasing the risk of mental and physical fatigue, which can directly impact performance and flight safety.
As these professionals expand their skills and consider operating more sophisticated aircraft, they face decisions with a strong psychological component, from transitioning to standardized training programs, such as Part 142, to moving from single-pilot operations to dual-pilot cockpits, where managing the roles of Pilot Flying (PF) and Pilot Not Flying (PNF) introduces new dynamics of collaboration. Taken together, this context highlights the critical importance of single-pilot mental health and safety within the corporate aviation ecosystem.
Single-Pilot Safety Standdown: Mental health and self-Care
One of the most anticipated panels on the NBAA Aviation agenda is the Single-Pilot Safety Standdown, a session specifically designed to address the risks faced by pilots operating solo. This session combines safety statistics, case studies, and best practices for single-pilot operations, aimed at strengthening both technical preparedness and psychological balance. Its goal is not only to prevent incidents but also to promote safer and more sustainable operations over the long term.
The program covers key topics such as reviewing corporate aviation safety statistics, developing a pre-flight checklist to help pilots assess their mental state, and emphasizing healthy habits like proper rest, nutrition, and breaks that support focus.
Special attention is given to the early detection of signs of fatigue, anxiety, or cognitive overload, factors that, if unrecognized, can compromise the flight. The session provides tools for pilots to manage stress, maintain optimal situational awareness, and adopt routines that reinforce mental well-being.
Maintaining pilot mental health: From the cockpit to the ground
Pilot mental health is not limited to time spent in the cockpit, it is also influenced by everything that happens on the ground. In executive aviation, where constant pressure affects organizers, controllers, FBOs, crew members, and pilots alike, every logistical detail matters. For instance, knowing that ground transfers are coordinated and that access permits or special pickups are arranged removes a source of uncertainty that could otherwise become an added stress factor.
Having a reliable ground logistics service reduces the mental load on those making critical in-flight decisions. Knowing that passenger pickups are under control or, in cases where the executive is piloting the aircraft, that their own ground transfer is planned upon arrival, allows them to fly with peace of mind and without added pressure. In this way, the connection between cockpit and ground becomes a key pillar for overall well-being in a business aviation setting.
Drivania’s role in business aviation
Drivania’s presence at NBAA-BACE 2025 underscores its commitment to innovation and excellence in private aviation. Participating in the industry’s most important event allows the company to stay up-to-date on the latest trends, user needs, and solutions shaping the future of corporate aviation. Being at the forefront of these developments enables Drivania to continue offering services that combine safety, efficiency, and peace of mind, key pillars in the experience of passenger and crew travel.
Drivania will be present in Las Vegas not only to explore industry innovations but also to provide executive transportation services, coordinating attendees’ transfers and ensuring that every transfer is perfectly aligned with the event schedule, from airport pickups to arrivals at the convention center.
Proactive management of ground logistics
Although it may be one of the smallest parts of the journey, having every aspect of ground logistics under control prevents unnecessary stress for pilots, crew, and passengers.
To achieve this, Drivania implements a proactive approach:
- Flight schedule monitoring: Each itinerary is tracked to ensure transfers are synchronized with aircraft arrivals and departures. For example, if a flight is delayed, the driver automatically adjusts to the new schedule.
- Specific FBO pickup protocols: Additional controls are in place to guarantee private aviation pickups, both for passengers and crew.
- User-specific adjustments: Passenger transfers are organized upon aircraft arrival, while crew pickups occur after completing “shutting down the aircraft” procedures, which can take 45-60 minutes depending on the type of aircraft. For instance, on a corporate flight with two pilots and attendants, passengers are transferred immediately to the hotel while the crew completes their on-board duties.
- Special permit management: Whenever possible, authorizations for tarmac pickups are arranged, complying with each airport’s specific requirements. For example, ground pickups at Farnborough Airport in London require prior airport authorization with a specific PPR (Prior Permission Required) number.
Frequently Asked Questions about NBAA-BACE 2025
What is NBAA-BACE and when will it take place in 2025?
NBAA-BACE is the largest international business aviation event, featuring exhibitions, conferences, and aircraft displays. The 2025 edition will take place from October 14 to 16 in Las Vegas, bringing together thousands of industry professionals.
What does operating as a single pilot involve?
Operating as a single pilot means assuming full responsibility for the flight without a co-pilot, including decision-making, system management, communications, weather monitoring, and stress management, which significantly increases the mental workload during flight.
What is the Single-Pilot Safety Standdown?
The Single-Pilot Safety Standdown is a session at NBAA-BACE 2025 focused on safety and well-being. It includes safety statistics, mental checklists, psychological preparation, and healthy habits to minimize fatigue for single pilots in business aviation.
How does ground logistics affect pilot mental health?
Efficient ground logistics reduce pilot stress by ensuring timely, smooth transfers. Knowing that passengers and crew will reach their destinations without issues allows the pilot to focus on flying without added stressors.
How are passenger and crew pickups different?
Passengers are picked up immediately after landing, prioritizing speed and comfort, while the crew is transferred after completing the aircraft shutdown, typically 45–60 minutes later. Services are tailored to the responsibilities and needs of each group.
What is a tarmac pickup and when is it requested?
A tarmac pickup is a transfer directly from the runway. It is requested when a quick or private access is required, following special permissions and specific airport regulations.
How does Drivania ensure coordination with FBOs?
Drivania implements specific pickup protocols for private aviation, including continuous coordination with FBOs managing private flights. Additionally, all Drivania drivers have extensive experience with private terminal pickups.
What information do clients receive and how far in advance?
Clients receive complete details of their transfer, including driver and vehicle information. All information is provided up to seven days in advance at major strategic destinations worldwide, ensuring every step of the journey is clearly planned.
What should I request from my transfer provider to minimize stress in BizAv?
Ensure your provider guarantees punctuality, flexibility for schedule changes, vehicles suited to each passenger type, experienced drivers in airport environments, and real-time updates, delivering transfers without surprises and a smooth executive experience.
How can I contact Drivania during NBAA-BACE?
During NBAA-BACE, you can contact Drivania personnel specialized in Private Aviation. Appointments can be scheduled here.