Whether you’re a hobbyist, entrepreneur, or seasoned UAV professional, attending drone expos and conferences can supercharge your growth. These events aren’t just about checking out the latest tech—they’re prime opportunities to learn from industry leaders, discover new tools and workflows, and connect with others who share your passion for flight. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best drone expos and conferences around the world that you should have on your radar.
1. Commercial UAV Expo (USA)
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
When: Annually in September
Website: www.expouav.com
One of the largest and most influential drone conferences in North America, Commercial UAV Expo focuses on enterprise use cases—think construction, surveying, agriculture, public safety, and infrastructure inspection. Expect dozens of sessions, live demos, and a huge expo floor featuring the latest UAV hardware and software.
Why attend:
- Industry-specific education tracks
- Networking with enterprise drone professionals
- Hands-on drone demos
2. DroneX Trade Show & Conference (UK)
Location: London, England
When: Annually in September
Website: www.dronexpo.co.uk
DroneX is the UK’s premier event for commercial and recreational drone users. It brings together a global audience and showcases cutting-edge drone solutions across industries.
Why attend:
- Learn from top-tier international speakers
- Explore new drone technologies
- Great for both professionals and startups
3. AUVSI XPONENTIAL
Location: Rotates across U.S. cities
When: Annually in spring
Website: www.xponential.org
Hosted by the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), XPONENTIAL covers more than just drones—it’s a hub for autonomous and robotic systems. Still, UAVs make up a big portion of the event, offering valuable insight for drone innovators and policymakers alike.
Why attend:
- Tech deep-dives and regulatory insights
- Government and defense sector access
- Future-looking innovation showcase
4. InterDrone (Currently on Pause)
Note: InterDrone was once a leading U.S.-based drone conference but has paused events as of 2022. Still, it’s worth keeping an eye on in case it returns.
5. Japan Drone Expo
Location: Chiba, Japan
When: Annually in June
Website: www.japan-drone.com
Asia’s premier drone event focuses on innovations from Japan and beyond. From industrial drones to AI-integrated systems, the Japan Drone Expo is a forward-looking show that blends hardware with smart systems.
Why attend:
- Explore Japan’s leading-edge drone tech
- Global industry exhibitors
- Perfect for companies exploring international expansion
6. Drone World Congress (China)
Location: Shenzhen, China
When: Annually in spring or summer
Website: [varies by year]
This is one of the largest gatherings of drone professionals in Asia, featuring speakers from over 70 countries and major players like DJI. It’s a powerhouse event for those interested in manufacturing, regulations, and global UAV trends.
Why attend:
- Insight into the world’s largest drone manufacturing hub
- Global networking opportunities
- Exposure to B2B opportunities in Asia
7. FPV Drone Racing Events & Expos
For those in the Drone Racing or FPV scene, expos attached to racing events like the MultiGP International Open (USA) or FAI World Drone Racing Championships (global) are worth attending.
Why attend:
Exposure to B2B opportunities in Asia
Insight into the world’s largest drone manufacturing hub
Global networking opportunities
Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Drone Expo
- Come prepared: Bring business cards, a pitch, and any portfolios (physical or digital).
- Plan your sessions: Prioritize talks, panels, or demos relevant to your niche (e.g., 3D mapping, FPV, or agricultural drones).
- Engage with vendors: Ask questions, try gear hands-on, and follow up post-event.
- Network with intention: Strike up conversations with fellow attendees—these events are goldmines for collaborations.
Final Thoughts
The drone industry moves fast, and staying informed is key to staying competitive. Whether you’re looking to monetize your drone skills, prototype new tech, or just geek out over flying robots, these events are where innovation happens and connections form. Pick one (or a few) from the list, and make 2025 the year you take your drone journey to the next level.
