Wings 'n Waffles -September 2026

The Future of Vertical Flight with Andrew "Andy" Mearns - Saturday, September 12th

The next revolution in aviation may not need a runway. Join us from 9:00 - 10:00 A.M. to enjoy breakfast (chicken and waffles, thus the event name) and an engaging look at the rapidly emerging world of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and the opportunities they will create across the aviation industry. Much like balloons opened the skies to human flight and early airplanes transformed transportation, eVTOL technology could mark another landmark shift in how people and goods move through the air. Explore the technology, emerging careers, infrastructure needs, and possibilities shaping this new sector.

Of special interest to residents of central Florida, learn more about FDOT’s new SunTrax Air advanced air mobility (AAM) facility in Polk County, the nation’s first AAM Aerial Test Track, housing multiple vertiports, dedicated airspace, and eVTOL testing capability.

Andrew Mearns is an Aviation Commercialization Consultant with more than 15 years of experience as an award-winning corporate jet & helicopter sales leader. He is now focused on supporting aerospace startups to develop and execute on go-to-market and business development strategies. He is also the team leader of the Vertical Flight Society’s Transformative Flight group. Andy holds a Master’s degree in International Business and Marketing as well as FAA private pilot and remote pilot certificates.

Members of the Florida Air Museum receive FREE admission to this event. Non-member cost is $10.00 per person at the door, which includes a day pass to tour the Museum when the event is over, a $5 discount on a regular daily admission!