Search VAI

VAI Scholarships

2026 Scholarship Applications Open Jul. 9, 2025 VAI offers scholarships in aviation maintenance, commercial helicopter pilot ratings, and pilot safety to help vertical aviation pilots and mechanics/engineers continue their education and training. VAI’s annual scholarship program is a VAI benefit exclusively for VAI members. The 2026 scholarship program opens Jul. 9, 2025, and runs through […]

VAI Student Member Benefits

Your Career Starts Here.

Viola’s Flight Report (June 2024) – Manage Risk – Prevent Accidents

Mil2Civ: Mentoring and Advice

Articles A Ground Lesson Potential knowledge gaps between military and civil flight training. Military Salary While Working as a Civilian Intern SkillBridge and SkyBridge Programs explained. You Aren’t Saving Lives Anymore Understanding the differences between military and civil helicopter EMS. 2022 HAI Mil2Civ Highlights Recap of the Mil2Civ Transition Course from Heli-Expo 2022. Change Discussion […]

Our History

Sep. 14, 1939 Igor Sikorsky flies the first practical helicopter, the VS-300, when helicopters were still experimental aircraft 1945 The commercial helicopter industry begins, with Axis and Allied militaries using the new technology primarily for troop evacuation Mar. 8, 1946 The Bell 47 is the first helicopter certificated for civil use by the Civil Aeronautics Board (forerunner of the […]

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.

Member Categories

Vertical Aircraft (VA) Operators DUES: $400 to $3,400 based on the number of aircraft Companies that own/operate vertical capable aircraft as a business tool for commercial or private use, or any federal, state, or municipal governmental agency or governmental entity operating VA. Only a principal owner, an officer, or an employee of a VA Operator […]

VAI Webinars: Do You Do Maintenance by the Rules or by the Norms?

Explore Your Member Benefits

Gain access to exclusive programs, discounts, networking opportunities, and more to help you power up your career or company.

Membership

Powering up the future of vertical aviation VAI offers a range of exclusive benefits to its members, providing valuable resources and services to individuals, businesses, stakeholders, and the community. These benefits include educational resources, programs, and networking opportunities that help drive growth in individuals and the industry, as well as enhancing safety, and advocacy efforts […]