News Sorell, Tasmania / Alexandria, Virginia, USA, Sep. 1, 2026 Vertical Aviation International (VAI) and the Australian Helicopter Industry Association (AHIA) today announced the signing of a letter of intent and initial engagement agreement, marking the first step toward developing a new, internationally credible vertical lift industry event for Australia and the broader Southeast Asia region. Under the agreement, signed Aug. 4, 2026, VAI and the AHIA will work together to explore, design, and structure a new event to succeed AHIA’s current show arrangements following their contractual expiration. The event—referred to for now as the “New Australian Vertical Lift Event,” pending a final name and brand identity—is intended to become a flagship gathering for the Australian and Southeast Asia regional helicopter and vertical aviation community, joining VAI’s global portfolio of premier vertical flight events alongside VERTICON in the United States and EUROPEAN ROTORS in Europe. “The AHIA is delighted to strengthen its relationship with VAI through the signing of a letter of intent to collaborate on delivering industry events across Australia and the broader region. As the AHIA continues its focus on advancing safety, education, industry capability, and informed policy that supports a strong and sustainable vertical aviation sector, this partnership will expand our capacity to deliver greater value to our members, supported by VAI’s global expertise, resources, and reach.” – Julian Fraser, CEO, AHIA “This letter of intent with the AHIA is an exciting step toward unifying the vertical aviation community across Australia and the broader Southeast Asia region under a shared vision, and toward engaging operators, manufacturers, suppliers, and government stakeholders in building an environment in which the entire industry can thrive. We’re proud to partner with the AHIA on this next chapter, and we look forward to building an event the region can be proud of.” – François Lassale, President and CEO, VAI With the letter of intent now signed, VAI and AHIA will begin working together to assess the format, location, and commercial framework for the proposed event. Further details, including the event name, location, and timing, will be announced as the development work progresses. About Vertical Aviation International Vertical Aviation International (VAI) is a global membership association representing the vertical flight industry, dedicated to the advancement of helicopters and other vertical lift aircraft as safe, effective tools that save lives, benefit society, and support economic growth. VAI represents vertical aviation operators, manufacturers, and professionals in more than 60 countries, advancing the safe and sustainable growth of the global vertical flight industry. About the Australian Helicopter Industry Association The Australian Helicopter Industry Association (AHIA) is the national industry body representing the interests of the helicopter and broader vertical aviation sector across Australia. AHIA works to support safe, sustainable, and efficient industry growth by advocating on behalf of its members, fostering workforce development, and promoting the vital role of vertical aviation in connecting regional and remote communities. Through events, industry engagement, and policy leadership, AHIA provides a unified voice for operators, maintainers, suppliers, and professionals across the sector. Media Contact, VAI Raffaele VitelliVice PresidentVertical Aviation International1920 Ballenger Avenue, Fourth Floor, Alexandria, VA 22314, USAraffaelev@verticalavi.org | +1 571 364 4365 Media Contact, AHIA Julian FraserCEOAustralian Helicopter Industry AssociationPO Box 629, Woodend VIC 3442, Australiaceo@austhia.com | +61 418 349 415
