Focused on the international helicopter community for more than 70 years, Helicopter Association International (HAI) has rebranded as Vertical Aviation International (VAI).
The decision to rebrand is part of HAI’s strategic initiative to unify the industry around a new vision of vertical aviation. The organization, on its website (https://rotor.org) says, “By expanding and diversifying, the vertical aviation industry is strengthening its scope and influence so that it can continue to provide the unique benefits of vertical flight to communities around the world. By embracing all vertical flight aircraft as part of one united industry, VAI believes that we can increase the power of our advocacy on its behalf.”
The professional trade association represents more than 1,100 companies and 16,000 industry professionals in more than 65 countries.
According to rotor.org, “All HAI members will become VAI members with the same access to their existing member benefits. The association will continue to focus on providing connection, advocacy, safety, education, and support for our individual and company members in the form of impactful benefits and superior service.”
The vision of VAI is “to be the world’s most vital membership association leading the evolution and expansion of vertical flight.”
The decision to rebrand was made by the HAI Board of Directors and part of the Strategic Industry Plan unanimously approved by the board in October 2022. Strategic Initiative 1 directs the association to “unify the industry around a new vision of vertical aviation.” The rebranding is part of that strategy.
VAI plans to launch a new website, verticalavi.org, this summer.
HAI HELI-EXPO 2024 is taking place Feb. 26-29 in Anaheim, California. More than 50 aircraft are on display, including 40 helicopters staged from Fullerton Municipal Airport. The aircraft include popular models from helicopter manufacturers such as Airbus, Bell, Leonardo and Robinson.
HAI HELI-EXPO will be called VERTICON in 2025.
