Amsterdam, Netherlands – Over 150 organisations from across the globe have pledged their support for the inaugural Commercial UAV Forum 2026, marking a significant show of unity for Europe’s rapidly expanding commercial drone sector. The event, slated for April 22-23, 2026, at the RAI Amsterdam, is positioned as a pivotal gathering for industrial-focused drone innovation on the continent.
The widespread backing underscores the growing momentum and collaborative spirit driving the unmanned aerial systems (UAS) ecosystem forward in Europe and beyond, as industry leaders prepare to showcase advancements, share insights, and foster crucial partnerships.
Launching Europe’s Premier Commercial Drone Event
Commercial UAV Forum 2026 is set to debut as Europe’s newest and most comprehensive destination for professionals in the industrial drone space. Organized by Diversified, the event builds upon the success of its established US counterpart, Commercial UAV Expo, extending a proven platform to meet the soaring demand and rapid growth of commercial UAS across Europe.
The two-day program in Amsterdam is specifically designed to cater to the needs of UAS professionals, offering a unique environment for attendees to gain knowledge about emerging trends, discover solutions to industry challenges, and build relationships that drive business success. It will bring together decision-makers and experts from various European sectors to explore the future of aerial technology integration and operation.
Unprecedented Industry Collaboration and Support
The commitment from more than 150 supporting partners highlights a collective belief in the Commercial UAV Forum’s potential to significantly impact the European drone market. These partners represent a diverse cross-section of the UAS landscape, including publications, portals, analysts, associations, and user groups.
Lee Corkhill, Group Event Director at Diversified, emphasized that this engagement “underscores the strength and momentum of Europe’s drone ecosystem and reflects the industry’s collective commitment to innovation and collaboration”. A key supporter is the Joint European Drone Associations (JEDA), which serves as an Event Partner. JEDA, the umbrella organization for 24 national drone associations across 22 European countries, signifies the Forum’s alignment with Europe’s broader objectives for harmonized regulation, sustainable growth, and safe UAS integration.
Driving Innovation and Growth in the UAS Ecosystem
The commercial drone market in Europe is experiencing remarkable growth, fueled by the increasing adoption of UAVs across diverse industries. The Commercial UAV Forum aims to serve as a catalyst for this expansion by focusing on key areas that are shaping the future of commercial aviation.
The forum will provide a platform for showcasing cutting-edge UAV hardware, software, and supporting technologies. It promises solution-focused educational sessions and practical discussions on real-world applications, enabling attendees to gain tangible, implementable strategies and solutions. Discussions are expected to cover topics such as UAS integration and operation, the latest technological advancements, and cutting-edge product development, offering a glimpse into the future of commercial UAVs.
Key Focus Areas and Expected Attendees
The Commercial UAV Forum 2026 is tailored to attract a wide range of professionals, from UAS integrators and operators to industry leaders, innovators, and technology solution providers. The event will cover critical industry topics and applications relevant to numerous vertical sectors, ensuring that attendees can find content specific to their needs.
Expected focus areas and sectors include:
- Construction: Navigating complex construction zones, implementing safety, and detecting leaks.
- Energy & Utilities: Inspection and maintenance of energy infrastructure.
- Public Safety & Emergency Services: Enhancing emergency response and public safety operations.
- Infrastructure & Transportation: Utilizing drones for surveying and mapping in various projects, including maritime, rail, and aviation.
- Surveying & Mapping: Advanced applications for large and small-scale projects.
- Precision Agriculture & Forestry: Optimizing operations through drone technology.
What to Expect: Education, Networking, and Technology Showcase
Attendees of the Commercial UAV Forum 2026 can expect a comprehensive program designed to elevate expertise and foster professional connections. The event will feature:
- Technology Showcase: An exhibition floor showcasing the latest advancements in commercial drone technology, including next-generation hardware and pioneering software solutions.
- Educational Sessions: Insights from leading experts through sessions held directly on the exhibition floor, catering to both seasoned professionals and newcomers.
- Keynote Presentations: Visionary talks from industry pioneers and thought leaders exploring current realities and future frontiers of the drone industry, including market demands and regulatory developments.
- Networking Opportunities: Extensive chances to connect with peers, industry leaders, and innovators from across Europe and around the globe, fostering new partnerships and collaborative opportunities.
The forum emphasizes community, actionable content, and strategic connections, which are key ingredients to accelerating the safe and effective adoption of drone technology across Europe’s core sectors.
The Future of Commercial Drones in Europe
As the European drone sector continues its rapid expansion, the Commercial UAV Forum 2026 stands as a crucial event for unlocking new business potential and advancing the integration of UAS technology. By bringing together a vast network of supporting organizations and industry professionals, the forum aims to shape the future of aerial technology and contribute significantly to economic growth through drone adoption. The event in Amsterdam will be a critical juncture for exploring the latest innovations, addressing regulatory developments, and forging the path forward for commercial drones in Europe.
