Vertical Aviation International CEO François Lassale previews new Vertical Lift Center at Oshkosh 2026

François Lassale, President and CEO of Vertical Aviation International (VAI), shared insights into his aviation background and the core mission of VAI during a recent episode of The Green Dot podcast hosted by EAA Chairman Jack J. Pelton. VAI focuses on promoting the advancement and integration of vertical lift aircraft technologies, aiming to support the evolving landscape of vertical aviation. Lassale emphasized the organization's role in uniting stakeholders from various sectors including manufacturers, operators, and regulators to foster innovation in the field.

A significant upcoming milestone for VAI is the launch of the Vertical Lift Center at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, scheduled for this summer. This dedicated center will showcase the latest developments in vertical lift aircraft and related technology to the aviation community. Lassale described the Center as a hub for education, networking, and demonstration, providing exhibitors and visitors alike a comprehensive experience focused on vertical aviation advancements.

The Vertical Lift Center is designed to become a permanent feature at AirVenture, reflecting the growing importance of vertical lift in the broader aviation ecosystem. It aims to offer a platform where industry players can present pioneering projects ranging from electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to more traditional helicopter innovations. Lassale highlighted that the Center will be instrumental in accelerating awareness and adoption of vertical lift capabilities within general aviation and commercial markets.

Lassale’s personal journey in aviation extends across multiple facets of the industry, including early engineering roles and leadership positions in prominent aviation companies. His expertise spans cutting-edge aerospace engineering to strategic business development in emerging aviation sectors. This diverse background underpins his leadership at VAI, driving the organization's vision to position vertical lift as a critical component of future air mobility solutions.

During the podcast, discussions touched on the challenges and opportunities facing vertical aviation, such as regulatory hurdles, certification processes, and the integration of new propulsion technologies. Lassale underscored VAI’s commitment to collaboration with regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders to shape enabling policies that ensure safety and foster innovation. The organization actively participates in shaping standards that will facilitate the deployment of new vertical lift vehicles in the national airspace.

AirVenture Oshkosh remains one of the world’s premier aviation gatherings, attracting enthusiasts, manufacturers, and professionals across all aviation sectors. The addition of the Vertical Lift Center signals the event's recognition of vertical lift as a rapidly emerging segment with significant growth potential. Lassale noted that the Oshkosh venue is ideal for demonstrating the practical capabilities of vertical lift aircraft alongside traditional general aviation offerings, appealing to a broad audience.

The Green Dot podcast itself serves as a vital conduit for sharing stories and developments within the aviation community. EAA’s initiative to include VAI’s leadership as guests reflects the interconnected nature of the aviation industry's traditional and innovative segments. The conversation with Lassale provided listeners valuable insights into the dynamics of vertical lift technologies and their potential impact on personal and commercial air travel.

The establishment of the Vertical Lift Center marks a deliberate step toward integrating vertical lift into mainstream aviation discourse and operations. It is positioned to foster increased collaboration among manufacturers, operators, investors, and regulators. By spotlighting vertical lift solutions at a major event like AirVenture, VAI intends to accelerate the sector’s maturity and public acceptance, positioning vertical aviation as an essential pillar of future air mobility.

With the upcoming opening of the Vertical Lift Center at AirVenture Oshkosh, VAI demonstrates a tangible commitment to advancing vertical aviation. The organization’s strategic focus on education, collaboration, and advocacy reflects the broader momentum within the industry toward embracing hybrid and electric vertical aircraft. As these technologies move closer to widespread operational use, VAI aims to be at the forefront of shaping their integration into the airspace and market.