Vertical Aviation International

Vertical Aviation International, or VAI, is a membership association for the vertical flight industry in the United States. It works on safety, advocacy, education and events for helicopter and drone operators, manufacturers and suppliers. Its programs also reach beyond the United States.

Safety is a key initiative. VAI publishes safety guides, including a Framework for Safety Guidebook, an Electronic News Gathering Safety Manual and a guide for utilities, patrol and construction work. It runs safety awards and programs such as It's OK to STAY and Land and LIVE. Members can reach tools for safety management systems, an Aviation Safety Action Program, fatigue tracking and accident and incident research.

VAI speaks for the industry before lawmakers and regulators. It runs a Legislative Action Center and a Regulatory Action Center. It also has industry advisory councils. Its advocacy topics include air tour management plans, low-altitude drone operations and the Fly Neighborly program. It also supports the International Federation of Vertical Aviation.

For education, VAI runs the VAI Online Academy and education sessions at VERTICON. Members can get tuition discounts from Purdue Global and discounts from King Schools. For careers, VAI offers a career center, support for students and emerging professionals, scholarships, a Mil2Civ program and a maintenance toolbox award.

VAI holds VERTICON, with a 2027 edition planned. It also holds the Southeast Asia Aviation Safety Conference, the Air Tour Safety Conference and the Aerial Work Safety Conference. It is linked to the European Rotors event and runs webinars. A Salute to Excellence event is planned for 2027.

Members can use a member directory, an online community and a Small Business Resource Center. VAI publishes weekly news, press releases and POWER UP magazine. It works with the media on stories about helicopters and drones. It can connect reporters with rotorcraft operators, manufacturers and suppliers of parts and services. VAI does not comment on accidents or incidents that are under active investigation.

Services

• Safety resources
• Advocacy
• VAI Online Academy
• VERTICON events
• Safety awards
• Career center
• Scholarships
• Small business resources
• Industry advisory councils
• Membership directory