11 Reasons to Attend Commercial UAV Expo 2025

BY Zacc Dukowitz

9 July 2025

Every September, the drone world descends on Las Vegas to connect, discover, and chart the future of the skies.

That’s right. We’re talking about Commercial UAV Expo, which is right around the corner.

Commercial UAV Expo 2025 promises to be one of the best places in the world to see the most cutting-edge drone technology, hear about how people are using AI for commercial drone ops, and—maybe most importantly—get updates on the FAA’s BVLOS rule.

In its 11th year, the Expo has solidified its reputation as the flagship commercial drone event in North America. It’s the place to learn what’s new, see the industry’s trajectory firsthand, and meet the people making it all happen.

Here are 11 reasons you should think about going.

When and Where Is Commercial UAV Expo 2025?

Commercial UAV Expo will be held at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, NV from September 2–4, 2025.

To receive a Free Exhibit Hall Only Pass or $100 off Full Conference Registration register at expouav.com, click register, and enter SAVE100 when prompted to enter a promo code.

Also, early bird pricing—which ends on July 18—gives you $170 off the full conference pass, for a total of $270 in savings. After July 18, the price goes up to $1,095.

1. Get the Latest on BVLOS & Other Regulatory Updates

It’s quite likely that the FAA will finally release its BVLOS rule—often called the Part 108—before CUAV 2025.

Whenever a federal agency like the FAA makes a new rule, it first has to share a draft for public comment (this is called a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, or NPRM).

If the stars align, the BVLOS NPRM could be out while the conference is happening. And that will mean you can hear from experts on what they think about the rule, not to mention talk to people yourself.

In addition to this possibility, the conference will have all the latest on any other regulatory updates.

Whether you’re a service provider, enterprise operator, or just want to know what’s next for commercial drones, the Expo is where you’ll get the most up-to-date insights on BVLOS and other critical regulatory shifts shaping the future of UAS in the U.S.

2. Watch Cutting-Edge Drones Fly in Real Time

Want to see the world’s top drones fly in real time?

If you’re tired of only seeing world-class drones in glossy promo videos, the Expo’s live demonstrations are a breath of fresh air.

You’ll see the latest aircraft and payloads in action, showing off their capabilities in real-world scenarios—from complex mapping missions to automated inspection flights.

3. A Show Floor Packed with Innovation

elios-3
The MFE trailer with the Elios 3 in flight at CUAV Expo

The exhibition hall at Commercial UAV Expo feels like a sneak peek into the future. With 225 exhibitors presenting their newest drones, sensors, software, and services, there’s something to explore at every corner.

Look out for interactive experiences—like MFE Inspection Solutions’ flight trailer, where you can fly Flyability’s Elios 3 yourself. These opportunities let you test technology firsthand instead of just hearing about it.

4. Dive into AI and Autonomy

Skydio’s X10 has industry-leading autonomy

AI and autonomous capabilities have moved from theory to practice in recent years, and this year’s Expo dives right into that transition.

You’ll see how AI-driven analytics, fully automated missions, and intelligent obstacle avoidance are reshaping drone operations across industries.

If you’re curious about hands-off data collection or AI-powered decision-making, this is the place to learn.

5. Industry-Specific Learning for Every Sector

Credit: 4Blades Digital

Tailored conference tracks mean you can focus on what matters most to your work.

Whether it’s construction, energy, infrastructure, public safety, or surveying, each track offers sessions filled with concrete case studies and lessons learned from top operators.

Check out the full 2025 program to plan your schedule ahead.

6. Visionary Keynotes from Industry Leaders

Expect big-picture insights from some of the brightest minds in the drone ecosystem.

This year’s keynote lineup explores everything from policy shifts and global market trends to the role of drones in sustainability and future cities.

These talks set the tone for the entire event and often spark some of the best hallway conversations.

7. Hands-On Technical Workshops

Want to sharpen your skills? Get ready to roll up your sleeves and leave with new techniques you can put to work immediately.

The Expo’s workshops let you dive into specialized topics in a small-group setting. From photogrammetry and LiDAR to advanced data workflows, these sessions are led by expert instructors who live and breathe the material.

Explore the workshop lineup.

8. Build or Strengthen Your Public Safety Program

The DRONERESPONDERS Public Safety Summit, hosted by AIRT, is a must for agencies looking to expand or improve their drone operations.

Covering everything from tactical operations to interagency cooperation, it’s a practical, mission-focused environment designed for first responders.

Whether you’re launching a new program or scaling an existing one, you’ll walk away with actionable knowledge.

Learn more about the summit.

9. Connect with Thousands of Drone Pros

With over 4,000 attendees expected from more than 70 countries, the Expo is a hub for global networking. Find future collaborators, scout new business opportunities, or simply share stories with people who understand your day-to-day challenges.

If you’re serious about growing your network in the drone industry, there’s no better place.