About the magazine
POWER UP magazine is an award-winning quarterly publication for VAI members that offers in-depth articles on the newest vertical aviation technology and industry best practices, with featured content that appeals to everyone. You’ll learn a lot about safety, what VAI is doing to help your business in the halls of government, and how some have made their mark on our industry.
Each edition of the magazine features world-class photography showcasing vertical aircraft, how they’re used, and the people who build, fly, maintain and support them.
Current Issue: June 2026
Features
Brian Jorgenson: Building on a Strong Foundation
New VAI chair brings “let’s go” energy to serving all of vertical aviation. By Christine Knauer
VERTICON 2026: Data-Driven Solutions for Real Change
VAI’s annual conference and trade show embraces an evolving industry. By Mark Huber
EAA, FAA Chiefs Talk About Vertical New World
VAI hosts aviation regulators Bedford and Guillermet at VERTICON 2026. By Mark Huber
Long Days, Short Notice
In Kenai, Alaska, REACH Air Medical Services stands ready to help. Story and photography by Mark Bennett
Departments
FROM THE BOARD: Charting the Path Forward
The VAI Board of Directors knows that change is hard! By Rick Kenin
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE: Evolution with Purpose
Our structured five-year plan will drive VAI’s relevance in shaping the industry. By François Lassale
ADVOCATING FOR YOU: A Model for Airspace Modernization
Baltimore Route 12 exemplifies how the FAA, VAI, and operators can unite to improve low-altitude airspace. By Theresa Marr and Katia Veraza
VAI BRIEFS
- New Leadership, Operational Depth: 2026–27 VAI Board Reflects an Industry in Transition
- VAI Career Fair Aims to Strengthen Workforce Pipeline
- Navigating the New Spectrum Landscape
FOR MEMBERS ONLY: Safety Awards
FLYOVER: Kansas City (Missouri) Police Department MD Helicopters MD 500E By Mark Bennett
ACCIDENT RECOVERY: Inexplicable Decision
Pilot’s choice to continue VFR flight into IIMC leads to loss of all on board. By David Jack Kenny
FLY SAFE: It’s OK to Stay
Sometimes the best decision a pilot can make is not to fly. By Jessica Meiris
MEMBER FOCUS: Colorado’s Lake County Airport (KLXV) Photo by Mark Bennett
Extra! Extra!
POWER UP magazine is available to VAI members as a member benefit. Individual and company members receive a print copy in the mail. Employees of company members (or any VAI member) can read the current issue of POWER UP online, share articles, or download a PDF of the magazine.
Looking for an older edition? Archived issues of POWER UP are maintained as PDFs. Issues from June 2025 and earlier are available for anyone to download.
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Join the world’s leading vertical aviation organization today to receive POWER UP magazine and take advantage of a host of other member benefits!
