LIFT Summit Returns to Monterey, CA to Shape the Future of Flight
Monterey, CA — DART is proud to announce the return of the LIFT Summit, taking place March 31 – April 2, 2026, at the Monterey Conference Center. Now in its second year under the LIFT brand—elevated to a national stage—the Summit builds on a seven-year legacy of regional convenings championing Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS), and related emerging technology sectors. The rebranded LIFT identity reflects this expanded platform, drawing recognized leaders, innovators, policymakers, and educators from across the country—and, in 2026, from around the globe.
With the theme “LIFT-Off into the Future of Flight,” the 2026 LIFT Summit will feature keynotes, panels, hands-on workshops, exclusive flight demonstrations, and facility tours showcasing the technologies that are redefining aviation. The event is designed to drive collaboration across industry, government, education and community to accelerate workforce readiness, infrastructure development, and policy frameworks that can fuel both regional and global economic growth.
Regional, State and National Initiatives
The 2026 LIFT Summit will be an opportunity to learn more about the implementation process underway for the recently announced $7.4 million California Jobs First investment in the California Advanced Air Mobility Corridor Initiative (CAAMCI), gain insights into outcomes of SB800 Implementation, as well as proposals submitted under the just announced FAA eVTOL Integration Pilot Program.
New Programming Committee to Guide Summit Content
For the first time, the LIFT Summit will be shaped with the guidance of a Programming Committee – a group of experts collaborating with the DART Team to help define the Summit’s vertical themes, establish the program format, and curate dynamic, forward-thinking content. This new committee ensures the 2026 LIFT Summit reflects the latest advancements in AAM and UAS, while addressing the most pressing challenges and opportunities across the aerospace industry.
What to Expect in 2026
- Expo Day (March 31): Private tours and flight demonstrations from leading AAM and UAS companies (open exclusively to government, education, and nonprofit attendees under NDA).
- Conference Days (April 1–2): Two full days of keynotes, panels, and workshops tackling innovation, workforce training, infrastructure, and policy.
- Networking Reception (April 1): Opportunity for cross-sector connections and collaboration.
Registration Now Open
Early-bird registration is available now through December 31, 2025. Full Passes include Expo Day, the two-day conference (with breakfast and lunch), and the networking reception. Discounted rates are available for government employees and students.
Scholarship opportunities are also available, thanks to support from community-based partners committed to workforce development.
Sponsorship & Partnership Opportunities
Organizations interested in shaping the future of air mobility can join as sponsors of the 2026 LIFT Summit. Sponsorship opportunities offer visibility with national and regional leaders across government, education, and industry.
Plan Your Visit to Monterey
The Summit’s host city, Monterey, CA, offers attendees world-class hospitality and a unique coastal setting. A special lodging rate is available at the Monterey Marriott, just steps from the Monterey Conference Center.
About the LIFT Summit
The LIFT Summit is a premier convening for the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) sectors, focused on innovation, workforce development, infrastructure, and policy. Hosted by DART (Drones, Aviation & Robotics Technology), the Summit builds actionable pathways for economic development and industry growth at both the regional and global scale.
Learn more at www.liftsummit.org
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