NTP Events Sells Out AFA Air, Space & Cyber Conference, Breaks Attendance Records

December 21, 2017

The Air Force Association (AFA) broke attendance records and sold out exhibit space for a second consecutive year at its most recent Air, Space & Cyber Conference and Technology Exhibition, held Sept. 18-20 at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland.

Produced and managed by NTP Events in conjunction with AFA, the annual conference and trade show for military, defense and aerospace professionals who plan, design, operate, maintain and manage military technology and infrastructure attracted 9,066 attendees, a 24 percent increase over 2016, when the show drew 7,294 attendees.

The event also saw an uptick in exhibiting companies and size, with more than 130 exhibitors spanning 55,400 net square feet of expo space, compared to 124 exhibiting companies occupying a 47,600 sq. ft. showfloor in 2016.

In addition, the show’s conference portion featured 31 educational sessions covering top-of-mind industry topics.

According to NTP officials, factors contributing to the show’s surge in attendance included a 70th birthday celebration of the Air Force; emphasis and recognition of the 50th anniversary of the creation of the office of the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force for which AFA was a leading advocate; support and participation by Air Force senior leadership and Headquarters Air Force, strong partner support and an emphasis on the event as a legitimate professional development activity for all Airmen.

“During a record-breaking show in 2017, NTP Events achieved a 100 percent resign of sold exhibit space in advance of next year’s event,” said Christopher Harar, president of NTP Events.

He continued, “The early commitment from so many industry manufacturers and suppliers demonstrates trust in the AFA and its ability to deliver qualified buyers from every segment of the industry. We are proud to serve not only the AFA but also our country through these events.”

AFA’s 2018 Air, Space & Cyber Conference will return to the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor Sept. 17-19.

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