Who We Are

VAI is the world’s leading membership association dedicated to the vertical aviation industry, advocating for safety, professionalism, innovation, and economic viability worldwide.

For more than 75 years, Vertical Aviation International has championed and amplified the voice of the global vertical aviation industry. We build community, help forge standards, create education and initiatives that strengthen the industry, and promote and celebrate its progress. 

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. VAI is committed to welcoming and representing every single member of the community: all the people and organizations that build, fly, fix, operate, and supply those aircraft. Together, we will strengthen communities worldwide and unlock the unlimited potential and power of up.

Our Purpose

To fuel the growth of the vertical aviation industry through connection, education, advocacy, and safety so that communities around the world are strengthened by the power of vertical flight.

Our Vision

To be the world’s most vital membership association leading the evolution and expansion of vertical flight.

Our History

Since its inception in 1948, VAI has been instrumental in shaping the growth and development of the vertical aviation industry. VAI has a rich history of working for the industry’s collective benefit through advocacy, collaboration, valuable resources, and pioneering innovation. 

Over the last seven decades, VAI has enhanced the professionalism, economic viability, and safety of helicopter operations worldwide, creating a sense of community and shared purpose across the industry. Today, we are the world’s most influential trade association and the leading voice of the vertical mobility community worldwide. 

Our Impact

16.5K+

VAI members

250+

industry volunteers serving on 15 industry advisory councils

18

associations/advisors in the VAI International Partnership Program

36

US and international regulatory/standards boards on which VAI participates

15K attendees and 625 exhibitors representing 87 countries at HELI-EXPO 2024

Become a member