VAI secures key state-level policy wins across the US From New York to Hawaii, VAI advocacy protects vertical aviation interests. Each year, VAI monitors state and local legislation in all 50 states to prevent policies that could negatively impact the vertical flight industry. So far in 2025, VAI tracked more than 160 aviation-related bills and engaged with lawmakers in state legislatures to support beneficial measures and oppose harmful ones. By working closely with legislators and industry partners, VAI ensures the industry’s voice is heard at the state and local levels. Through strategic advocacy and coalition-building, VAI successfully defeated restrictive proposals, amended bills to safeguard operations, and promoted initiatives that enable future growth. Below are some of the year’s notable state-level wins: CALIFORNIA Earlier this year, VAI visited the California State Capitol to meet with legislators and discuss how the state can support workforce development for the growing and evolving vertical flight industry. HAWAII Hawaii Senate Bill 1197 was defeated. If passed, the bill would have required air tour operators to obtain a state permit and significantly increase their liability insurance coverage for bodily injury, death, and property damage. VAI successfully opposed Hawaii House Bill 810 which would have opened air tour operators to onerous lawsuits and liability due to alleged violations of the Federal Aviation Act. IOWA/TEXAS VAI worked closely with state legislators in Iowa and Texas to remove language that would have hindered AAM infrastructure development and impacted existing public heliports in both states. NEW YORK New York City Council Int. 0026-24 (would have limited operations to electric vehicles only). After over a year of VAI’s leadership, advocacy, and collaboration with government regulators and industry partners, the NYC Council passed amended legislation (now law) that preserves current helicopter operations at the two City-owned heliports for the foreseeable future while providing for investment in infrastructure and future vertical aviation technology. Two bills banning helicopter tours at New York City heliports (S.7381/A.6311) failed to become law. Amended statewide unleaded fuel legislation (S.5440-A/A.4043-A) to protect GA operations. Working with industry partners, blocked a statewide noise tax in both the state budget and stand-alone legislation. These outcomes demonstrate VAI’s commitment to proactive advocacy and collaboration with policymakers and industry partners to keep vertical flight a key component of the nation’s aviation system. As the next state legislative sessions approach, contact katiaveraza@verticalavi.org to suggest a bill for introduction in your state or to report legislation that could impact your operations.
