FIDAE 2026 spotlights vertical aviation The international aviation and space fair in Santiago, Chile, is for the first time including dedicated sessions about vertical aviation. FIDAE 2026, the 24th International Air and Space Fair, runs through Apr. 12 at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCEL) in Santiago, Chile. Recognized as Latin America’s leading aerospace, defense, and security exhibition, the event brings together stakeholders across the civil and military aviation, space technology, and unmanned aerial systems sectors. The exhibition features more than 350 exhibitors from 33 countries and is expected to attract hundreds of official delegations. The event typically attracts approximately 100,000 attendees. Programming includes both aerial demonstrations and static displays showcasing current and emerging aerospace technologies. For the first time, FIDAE will include dedicated programming on vertical flight, with four panel sessions focused on the future of the sector. These sessions will be held on Wednesday, Apr. 8, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm (UTC-3). VAI is attending FIDAE 2026 and participating as a panelist in one of the vertical flight sessions. VAI supports the inclusion of vertical aviation topics at major international forums, as they provide an important opportunity to advance dialogue, share expertise, and promote the vertical aviation industry. If you are a member interested in connecting with VAI at FIDAE, we encourage you to attend the vertical flight sessions or reach out in advance to Katia Veraza, VAI director of state government affairs and regional relations, at KatiaV@verticalavi.org to coordinate an in-person meeting during the event.
