VAI taps international aviation exec as CEO

Lassale will replace James Viola, who became the new CEO of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association this year, a move announced in December that prompted VAI to conduct an international search that led to an aviation executive with more than 35 years of military, public service, and commercial aviation experience. Lassale has worked in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, where he previously served as CEO of SGi, a fleet operator in Bali, Indonesia.

Lassale more recently oversaw a three-company commercial aviation group serving Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea, according to VAI. He has also been an active volunteer for various advocacy and safety organizations, including the National Business Aviation Association, and VAI, having served as a special advisor to the VAI board on international issues.

VAI Chairman Rick Kenin said in a news release that Lassale “is the right leader at the right time for VAI… As our industry evolves to include both traditional rotorcraft and powered-lift technologies, his safety-first mindset, ability to unify diverse voices, and focus on delivering results will position VAI to lead the evolution and expansion of vertical flight.”

Beyond Lassale’s résumé, Kenin said his vision stood out: “François understands that VAI must not only navigate this period of transformation—we must define it.”

Lassale said his first order of business will be to listen.

“Our industry is undergoing transformative change, from technology adoption and airspace integration to evolving safety standards and workforce needs. VAI has a critical role to play in guiding that evolution, advocating for our members, and ensuring vertical aviation remains safe, innovative, and economically viable. In my first months, I’ll be listening closely to our members across the United States and internationally to validate a focused set of priorities for VAI.”

Lassale recently led the development of VAI’s first Southeast Asia Aviation Safety Conference scheduled to be held in May 2026 in Bali. Lassale is expected to begin his work as VAI CEO in the fall, once he has completed work authorization “formalities now in process,” VAI said.