The Vertical Flight Society's 81st Annual Forum & Technology Display
The Vertical Flight Society's 81st Annual Forum & Technology Display is the world's premier international technical event focused on vertical flight technology. This comprehensive conference features over 250 technical papers covering various disciplines, from Acoustics to Test and evaluation, complemented by invited presentations and discussions from military, government, and industry leaders.
Event Dates
The conference spans three days, October 20, 21, and 23, with abstract submissions due by October 11, 2024
Event Highlights
The Technology Display runs concurrent with the Forum and represents the most extensive exposition of cutting-edge vertical flight technologies globally. The exhibition showcases innovations from:
- Leading manufacturers
- Service providers
- Defense agencies
- Universities
- Research and development organizations
Technical Program
Paper Presentations
- Expert-led discussions on latest theories and breakthroughs
- Over 250 technical papers across multiple disciplines
- Comprehensive coverage from Acoustics to Test & Evaluation
Leadership Insights
- "Straight Talk from the Top" featuring major rotorcraft manufacturers
- Military rotorcraft program managers' presentations
- Civil and defense leaders discussing advanced rotorcraft and electric VTOL
Special Events
- 81st Annual Grand Awards Banquet
- 45th Annual Nikolsky Lecture
- eVTOL Technology Short Course
- Friday Industry Tour (TBA)
Networking Opportunities
The event provides extensive networking possibilities through:
- Technology Display exhibitions
- Interactive sessions with industry leaders
- Collaborative discussions with experts
- Awards ceremonies and special events
Event Information
| Event Date | 05-20-2025 |
| Event End Date | 05-22-2025 |
| Event Website | https://vtol.org/register |
| Location | Virginia Beach Convention Center |
Venue Information - Virginia Beach Convention Center
The Virginia Beach Convention Center stands as a state-of-the-art event facility, distinguished as the nation's first convention center to earn LEED® Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council
. Located minutes from the beach and resort area, this impressive venue combines coastal charm with metropolitan amenities.
Venue Specifications
The facility boasts impressive dimensions and capabilities:
- Over 516,000 gross square feet of total space
- 150,000 square feet of column-free exhibit space
- Nearly 29,000 square feet of meeting space
- Over 31,000 square feet ballroom (one of the largest on the East Coast)
- 2,209 free parking spaces
Amenities and Services
The convention center offers comprehensive facilities including:
- Full AV capabilities with onsite staff
- Business center
- Onsite catering
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Loading dock and staging areas
- Portable walls
- Dance floor and piano
Location and Transportation
Situated in Virginia Beach's oceanfront resort area, the venue is:
- 12.6 miles from the airport
- Minutes from the beach and resort area
- Accessible by bus, taxi, and airport shuttle
- Equipped with complimentary parking and bus parking facilities
Environmental Commitment
The facility demonstrates strong environmental leadership: