Powering Up with the Global Vertical Aviation Industry
VERTICON, the premier global event for the vertical aviation industry, continues to build on its legacy as the essential gathering for helicopter, advanced air mobility (AAM), and eVTOL professionals. Following a highly successful 2026 event in Atlanta, VERTICON is set to bring its unique blend of business, education, and innovation to the West Coast for its 2027 edition, taking place at the Anaheim Convention Center from March 15–18, 2027.
VERTICON 2026: A Record-Breaking Event in Atlanta
The 2026 show, held at the Georgia World Congress Center from March 9–12, firmly established VERTICON as the “world’s biggest rotor event,” drawing the global vertical aviation community together in force. The event delivered 280,000 square feet of exhibit space, featuring 684 exhibitors and 64 aircraft on static display. Attendance reached 12,852 professionals from over 80 countries, with a show floor designed for hands-on engagement, including a dedicated drone cage for indoor demonstrations.
A Focus on the “Inflection Point”
François Lassale, president and CEO of Vertical Aviation International (VAI), in his first VERTICON in this role, described the industry as being at an “inflection point.” He emphasized that while traditional helicopters remain essential to society, the industry must also prepare for the influx of new entrants, particularly in the advanced air mobility sector. The event served as a critical platform for bringing the entire vertical lift ecosystem together to make sense of and shape this change.
High-Level Industry Dialogue
A major highlight of VERTICON 2026 was the unprecedented gathering of top aviation regulators. In a rare joint appearance, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford and EASA Executive Director Florian Guillermet participated in a fireside chat with Lassale. The conversation centered on balancing innovation with safety, improving international regulatory alignment, and managing the rapidly growing low-altitude airspace. Bedford stressed the importance of industry partnership and the commitment to AAM, while Guillermet emphasized the need for data-driven, performance-based regulations to keep pace with innovation.
Diverse Educational and Workforce Programming
VERTICON is distinguished by its robust commitment to professional development and safety. The 2026 event delivered learning opportunities across multiple formats, including 24 in-depth Elevation Courses and 66 short Foundation Sessions eligible for FAA WINGS and AMT credits. A total of 120 education courses and sessions were available, covering topics from safety and maintenance to the latest operational best practices.
Workforce development was a core focus. The Mil2Civ Workshop provided resources for nearly 300 military personnel transitioning to civilian aviation careers, and the VAI Career Fair connected over 500 job seekers with more than 30 hiring companies.
Looking Ahead to VERTICON 2027 in Anaheim
Building on the momentum from Atlanta, VERTICON 2027 is moving to the Anaheim Convention Center from March 15–18, 2027. The event is expected to draw a similar or larger crowd, with over 650 exhibitors, 60+ aircraft, and an anticipated attendance of up to 15,000 professionals from over 80 countries. The 2027 edition promises to continue its tradition of providing a comprehensive platform for the industry to conduct business, sharpen skills, and advance safety. As the industry navigates its “inflection point,” VERTICON remains the definitive space where the vertical aviation community meets to define its future.