34th International Helicopter Forum: Two Days of Exchange, Innovation and Community
With around 320 participants, the 34th International Helicopter Forum, held on 1 and 2 July 2026, was a great success. Under the motto "Together Strong: The Helicopter Community – Unity of Effort," the event focused on the importance of collaboration. The forum highlighted how close cooperation between the armed forces, industry, research institutions, emergency services, and other partners is essential to successfully address both the current and future challenges and opportunities facing the helicopter sector.
Following registration with Mr. and Mrs. Bals, the event officially opened at 9:00 a.m. with welcoming remarks by Dr. Klaus Przemeck, President of the Helicopter Centre Association (Hubschrauberzentrum e.V.), Colonel (GS) Bodo Schütte, and Colonel Norbert Ordelmans. Together, they welcomed the numerous guests and launched two inspiring days featuring high-level presentations, engaging discussions, and valuable networking opportunities.
The conference programme offered fascinating insights into current developments and future trends in both military and civil helicopter aviation. The thematic sessions: Operations, International Partnerships: Military Rotary Wing Aviation in Times of Change, Enablement and Support, Research and Development, Equipment, and The Young Professionals featured experts sharing perspectives on current challenges, innovative solutions, and the future of the rotary-wing community. The sessions were chaired by Major General (Ret.) Dipl.-Ing. (Univ.) Reinhard Wolski, Chairman of the Association, Dr. Klaus Przemeck, Colonel Bodo Schütte, and Colonel Norbert Ordelmans.
Alongside the technical programme, there was ample opportunity for personal exchange. The traditional networking evening at the German Helicopter Museum provided a relaxed setting in which participants could deepen existing relationships, establish new contacts, and strengthen professional partnerships. These personal encounters have long been one of the defining features that make the International Helicopter Forum such a valued meeting place for the helicopter community.
Another highlight was the accompanying industry exhibition featuring 30 exhibitors, who showcased their latest products, technologies, and services. The exhibition offered companies an excellent platform to present innovations and engage directly with industry professionals and potential partners. Participants also continue to benefit after the event, as they receive access to the presentation materials and the participants' contact details, enabling them to continue professional exchange well beyond the forum itself.
This year's forum also marked a special premiere: for the first time, secondary school students from the region were invited to attend the second day of the event. During the "The Young Professionals" session, supervised by Lieutenant Colonel Gerald Raeke, they gained valuable insights into the diverse career and training opportunities within the helicopter industry. Representatives from both military and civil aviation introduced their professions, shared experiences from their daily work, and answered the students' questions. This provided the young visitors with a unique opportunity to explore career paths and establish their first connections within this forward-looking industry.
An event of this scale is only possible thanks to the dedication and commitment of many individuals. We would therefore like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the forum: the organising team, especially Kerstin and Dieter Bals, the Executive Board, the many volunteers, the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr), in particular Master Sergeant Stephan Gebauer, our speakers, session chairs and moderators; exhibitors, catering and event technology providers; and all those working behind the scenes. We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our partners and sponsors, whose support made a significant contribution to the success of the event.
Behind every International Helicopter Forum are years of planning, preparation, and organisation. We are therefore especially pleased that this year's event once again received such an overwhelmingly positive response. The many encouraging comments from participants demonstrate that the forum fulfilled its mission: to share knowledge, showcase innovation, and bring together members of the international helicopter community.
Many participants have already announced their intention to return for the next forum.
As the saying goes: after one forum comes the next.
We are already looking forward to welcoming you to the 35th International Helicopter Forum on 5 and 6 July 2028.
Further information is available at "Forum 2026" and "Forum 2028."
Author: Bleona Buzhala
