European Rotors 2024, held from 4-7 November in Amsterdam, successfully concluded having attracted over 4,600 participants from around the globe. This annual event, sponsored by the European Helicopter Association (EHA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), showcased the latest innovations, regulatory advancements and best practices in the vertical flight sector.

The programme theme, ‘Shaping the Future of Vertical Flight’, resonated throughout the event, highlighting the industry’s commitment to developing eco-friendly technologies. Keynote speakers addressed pressing topics such as eVTOL aircraft; advancements in safety protocols; and the integration of digital technologies in rotorcraft operations.

“The 2024 edition of European Rotors was a great success, with 234 exhibitors and 18 helicopters in the exhibition halls,” says Fredrik Kampfe, board chair for EHA and industry affairs director for Swedish Aviation Industry Group. “I saw an exhibition floor filled with enthusiastic people, and the feedback we have received is very positive. With a great educational programme, well-attended best practice sessions and a career day attracting a large number of young participants, we reached out to professionals of both today and tomorrow. My personal highlight was to fly a VR helicopter simulator finally and to meet so many new friends from the helicopter community. I extend my most heartfelt thank you to everyone who made European Rotors 2024 such a success.”

Key highlights include:

- EASA Safety Symposium: Held on the first day of the show, regulatory officials and experts participated in presentations and discussions on topics such as regional and international regulatory compatibility, safety enhancements and the future of urban air mobility. Notable panellists included EASA certification director Rachel Daeschler and Dan Elgas, director of policy and standards with the FAA.

- Exhibition Hall: This year’s exhibition floor featured over 230 booths with companies showcasing their latest products and services, an increase over the number from previous years. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge technology such as flight simulators, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and training devices. A total of 18 full-sized aircraft, representing most of the major manufacturers, were available for examination by attendees.

- Workshops and Training Sessions: Tailored workshops offered insights into the best practices for maintaining aircraft safety and efficiency, while training sessions focused on emerging technologies in rotorcraft operations. EASA also held a detailed briefing on the best practices for escaping vortex ring state.

- Networking Opportunities: Attendees participated in numerous networking events, facilitating meaningful connections between industry leaders, manufacturers and regulatory bodies. Much of the vertical flight industry thrives on personal relationships, often developed on the show floor or during coordinated events.

“European Rotors provided an incredibly wide educational programme this year,” says show director Dr Frank Liemandt. “Our attendees appreciated plenty of first-time events such as a series of ‘Best Practice’ sessions conducted jointly with industry representatives and operators; presentations on ‘How to use your equipment’ in the Rotor Safety Zone; and events like the Career Day. Another highlight for us was the first attendance of helicopter stunt pilot, Fred North, presenting his new safety mentorship programme.”

There is value in holding in-person events from a practical standpoint says Thierry Couderc, vice chair of EHA and CEO of the French Helicopter Association: “Face-to-face communication is significantly better than electronic communication. We held a technical briefing here at the show that was significantly stronger and more detailed due to being in-person.”

As European Rotors 2024 wrapped up, plans for next year’s event are already underway. The next edition will return to Cologne, Germany, site of the first two shows, from 17-20 November. Registration will open in mid-2025.

“Now we look forward to European Rotors 2025 and we have registered a record number of exhibitors and sold square metres of exhibition space,” adds Kampfe. “I invite all exhibitors and visitors to the 2024 European Rotors to give us feedback so that we can make sure that the 2025 edition becomes the best show ever. Let’s reach further together.”