What Happened
Inaugural Vertical Lift Center and Record Symposium Turnout Signal Industry Shift
AirVenture 2026 marked a significant milestone for vertical aviation with the inaugural Vertical Lift Center, created through a collaboration among the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), Robinson Helicopter, and Vertical Aviation International (VAI). The center brought together dozens of vertical lift industry partners, showcasing traditional helicopter technology alongside emerging eVTOL and AAM aircraft. A co-located electric aviation symposium drew nearly 200 participants from 12 countries, with topics covering electric and hybrid-electric aviation, hydrogen technology, and certification. The FAA’s MOSAIC rule, which expands the light-sport aircraft category to include rotorcraft and powered-lift aircraft, was also discussed. This development was first reported by AviNews.