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RotorTech 2026 has officially taken off on the Gold Coast, bringing together Australia’s leading rotary-wing, uncrewed systems and advanced air mobility (AAM) sectors for the nation’s premier industry-only vertical flight event.
Reflecting the growing convergence between traditional helicopter operations and emerging AAM and uncrewed technologies, the event has been rebranded as the RotorTech Vertical Flight Exposition.
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Organisers say the change recognises a broader shift towards integrated airspace, shared regulatory frameworks and increasingly connected operational environments across both crewed and uncrewed aviation.
Delivered in partnership with the Australian Helicopter Industry Association (AHIA) and the Australian Association for Uncrewed Systems (AAUS), RotorTech 2026 brings these communities together under a single platform focused on safety, capability development, workforce growth and the uptake of new technologies across the vertical flight ecosystem.
The three-day program features a major industry exhibition alongside integrated conference streams, with a combined total of 41 sessions spanning the AHIA Conference and the AAUS Advanced Air Mobility Summit 2026.
A key attraction is a comprehensive static display of aircraft and aviation technologies, showcasing capabilities across emergency services, training, commercial operations and next-generation systems. Major rotary-wing manufacturers in attendance include Airbus, Bell, Robinson Helicopter Company and Leonardo, presenting platforms ranging from light utility and training helicopters through to medium-lift and mission-configured aircraft.
Among the highlights is the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter EC135, underscoring the critical role of rotary-wing aviation in search-and-rescue and emergency-response operations across Australia.
The aircraft displays are complemented by a broader exhibition covering firefighting systems, maintenance solutions, simulation technologies and emerging aviation capabilities, offering a full picture of the sector’s operational lifecycle.
RotorTech 2026 has also recorded strong growth compared with the 2024 event, signalling rising confidence and engagement across the vertical flight industry.
Key outcomes for this year’s exposition include:
- 125 exhibiting companies, an 11.6 per cent increase from 2024
- Representation from 11 nations
- 24 sponsors, marking a 200 per cent increase
- 41 conference and speaker sessions across both major programs
- 12 static aircraft and technology displays, including helicopters, UAV systems and simulation capabilities
- 12 networking events held throughout the week
- Five media partners supporting domestic and international coverage
Program highlights include the AHIA Conference, which will focus on safety, operational excellence and workforce capability within the helicopter sector. The program features international keynote speakers and technical sessions covering maintenance, training systems and operational performance.
Meanwhile, the AAUS Advanced Air Mobility Summit 2026 will bring together government, industry and research leaders to explore the pathway for AAM deployment in Australia, with a focus on policy, regulation, infrastructure, airspace integration and technology readiness.
In a first for the event, RotorTech 2026 will also host a joint plenary session titled “Vertical Horizons: A Global Approach to Safety, Standards and the Future of Australian Skies”, bringing together AHIA and AAUS stakeholders to highlight the shared future of crewed and uncrewed aviation.
RotorTech Vertical Flight Exposition 2026 runs from Wednesday, 6 May to Friday, 8 May at RACV Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast. Australian Aviation will be providing rolling coverage.
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