AirVenture 2026 Vertical Lift Center: Joby, Beta, Wing, Zipline and More

EAA AirVenture 2026’s new Vertical Lift Center will feature Joby Aviation, Beta Technologies, Wing, Zipline, and other drone and eVTOL innovators. Max Trescott and David Vanderhoof preview the aircraft, demonstrations, and companies bringing advanced air mobility, drone delivery, personal flight, public-safety systems, and agricultural UAS technology to Oshkosh. Beta is scheduled to fly, while Wing, Jetson ONE, and agricultural-drone operators are also expected to demonstrate their aircraft.The Video of the Week examines a dramatic drone wire strike after a pilot flies beneath a bridge and encounters nearly invisible wires on the far side. Max and David explain why wires remain a serious hazard for drone, helicopter, and low-flying aircraft pilots.They then discuss a security failure that exposed San Francisco Police Department drone video through a publicly accessible link. The conversation covers privacy, data protection, Skydio’s approval for one operator to supervise four drones, and Minneapolis City Council’s rejection of a free drone-as-first-responder trial.Another story features an experimental drone that becomes difficult to see by spinning 25 times per second. Finally, Max and David consider whether one serious eVTOL accident could damage public confidence, restrict operations near major airports, and reshape the future of electric air taxis.