Verticon (formerly HAI Heli-Expo)
The largest helicopter and vertical aviation event in the world. Rebranded from HAI Heli-Expo in 2024, Verticon brings the rotor and eVTOL industry together annually each spring.
What to expect
Quick facts
Dates
March 15–18, 2026
Location
Anaheim Convention Center
Anaheim, United States
Estimated attendance
~16,000
Exhibitors
~600
Registration
from USD 750 full pass
Languages
EN
Regulatory focus
FAA
Also known as
Verticon, HAI Heli-Expo, Heli-Expo, Vertical Aviation International Expo
Who attends
Helicopter operators (HEMS, oil-and-gas, utility, tour, corporate), OEMs, MROs, helicopter training centers and schools, AAM/eVTOL companies, military rotary-wing observers, and a growing pilot career-development contingent.
Why flight schools attend
Helicopter training schools and combined fixed-wing/rotary operations use Verticon for fleet decisions, instructor recruiting, and operator placement relationships. The pilot career fair connects CFIs and graduating helicopter students with operators across HEMS, oil-and-gas, tour, and utility segments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The Helicopter Association International (HAI) rebranded to Vertical Aviation International (VAI) in 2024, and Heli-Expo became Verticon. The event runs in the same format at the same scale — only the branding changed.
Yes — Verticon is the largest concentration of helicopter operators, OEMs, and training centers in the world. Helicopter training schools use it for fleet decisions, instructor recruiting, and graduate placement relationships across HEMS, oil-and-gas, utility, and tour segments.
Verticon runs annually in late February through mid-March, rotating between major US convention cities. The 2026 edition ran 15-18 March at the Anaheim Convention Center. Recent host cities include Atlanta, Anaheim, Dallas, and Las Vegas.
Listing last verified May 4, 2026 · Always confirm dates and registration via the official site.