The Airborne Public Safety Association (APSA) is back in Reno, Nevada, for its annual gathering — the Airborne Public Safety Convention (APSCON).
This year, APSA has combined APSCON with APSCON Unmanned (formerly the Public Safety Drone Exposition) into one event, being held July 25 to 30.
Education and training courses kicked off earlier in the week and carry on throughout the event. On the evening of July 27, the exhibit hall opened for attendees to get a two-hour sneak peek at the products and services to be showcased over the following two days.
Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam welcomed visitors to Reno, then joined the APSA board of directors in cutting the ribbon, officially launching the conference. The steady flow of airborne professionals from around the globe seemed to indicate that attendance may reach pre-pandemic levels, as the show floor was crowded throughout the evening.
Most major manufacturers were present, with several helicopters and airplanes on display for hands-on interaction.
There are also a variety of in-person demonstrations of products and services for airborne law enforcement, search-and-rescue, and other public safety sectors. Additionally, there are several anticipated debuts of products designed to aid operators in their missions.
The exhibit floor will be open July 28 and 29 for viewing, and classes will carry on across both days and into the weekend.