HAI Rebrands as Vertical Aviation International

The nonprofit trade organization says the new name is part of a ‘transformative journey.’

Tuesday, February 27, 2024 at 04:24 PM ET

Verified

This year’s event from included the announcement that Helicopter Association International (HAI) was rebranding as Vertical Aviation International. [Courtesy: VAI]

Key Takeaways:

Helicopter Association International (HAI) has rebranded as Vertical Aviation International (VAI) to reflect the evolving vertical aviation industry and new aircraft technology.
The name change signifies an expanded focus to support all aircraft capable of vertical or short takeoff and landing (VSTOL), not solely helicopters.
VAI aims to better serve the broader vertical aviation community and enhance engagement with legislators and regulators.
The organization's annual conference and trade show has also been renamed VERTICON.

See a mistake? Contact us.

Helicopter Association International, the nonprofit trade organization founded 75 years ago, announced Tuesday that it had rebranded as Vertical Aviation International (VAI) due to the evolving vertical aviation industry.

Board chair Nicole Battjes and president and CEO James Viola said in a letter to VAI members that the name change was made to reflect the “wave of expansion” being ushered in by new aircraft and technology. They said the new moniker is part of a “transformative journey” but promised members the group’s commitment to the industry wouldn’t change.