We are Vertical Aviation International.

Together, we will fuel the growth of the vertical aviation industry so communities around the world are strengthened by the power of vertical flight.

VERTICON 2026

Interaction at HELI-EXPO 2023.

Safety

Advocacy

Classic columns of the Victorian Parliament building in Melbourne, Australia.

The Leading Member Organization in Vertical Flight 

This edition of François’s Aviation Reflections is coming to you from Atlanta, Georgia, where VAI concluded a highly successful conference and trade show earlier this month. The energy at VERTICON 2026—my first as VAI’s president and CEO—was electric, providing momentum for the launch of VAI’s first international safety event, the 2026 VAI Southeast Asia Aviation Safety Conference, which takes place in Bali, Indonesia, May 27–29. I hope to see you there and in Anaheim, California, Mar. 15–18, 2027, for next year’s VERTICON!

About VAI

For more than 75 years, we’ve been the global leader in advocating for the vertical flight industry and the unique benefits it offers communities. We’re the leading voice in promoting safety, professionalism, innovation, and the industry’s economic viability. Today, VAI is evolving and expanding, just as our industry is exploring new territories in vertical mobility. The vertical aviation fleet is becoming more diverse, and VAI is committed to representing all the people and organizations that build, fly, fix, operate, and supply those aircraft.

Our purpose is to fuel the growth of the vertical aviation industry through connection, advocacy, safety, education, and support for businesses and individuals. Together, we will strengthen communities worldwide and unlock the unlimited potential and power of up.

Our Impact at a Glance

From adding value to your membership to shaping the future of vertical mobility, VAI is constantly taking the industry to new heights.

96,000

emails sent, keeping open New York City’s West 30th St. Heliport (KJRA)

$20,000

saved by VAI members through the Flight Training and Checking benefit

38 schools

(an addition of 6 in 2024) now participate in the Utah Rotor Pathway Program

54%

increase in VAI members volunteering on VAI industry advisory councils

Explore VAI Media

Discover all that VAI offers in news communications

Verti-Cool Video of the Week

VERTICON 2026 Fly-In Video

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