SAINT PAUL, MN — November 18, 2025 — Flight Simulation Association (FSA) has announced several major updates for FlightSimExpo 2026, including the introduction of Friday exhibit hall access for the first time in the event’s history. The expo returns June 12–14, 2026, at the Saint Paul RiverCentre in Minneapolis/Saint Paul, Minnesota.

Organizers also confirmed that sponsor and exhibitor registration is now open, encouraging developers and companies of all sizes to explore partnership opportunities at flightsimexpo.com/partner.

Friday Exhibit Hall Access Debuts in 2026

Responding to feedback from attendees and industry partners, this year’s event will open the exhibit hall on Friday, June 12, from 4:30pm to 7:00pm. Doors will open immediately following the popular #FSExpoFriday product announcements and developer updates.

“Attendees consistently tell us that interacting with developers and getting hands-on time with new software and hardware is the highlight of their weekend,” said FSA Co-Founder and VATSIM controller Evan Reiter. “Adding Friday access gives attendees 20% more time in the hall without increasing the travel footprint for partners.”

#FSExpoFriday will kick off at 12pm CDT, one hour earlier than last year. Saturday and Sunday will continue the tradition of big announcements, hands-on demos, workshops, Q&As, and more.

FSA Co-Founder Phil Coyle added that the team is working on bringing back fan-favorite experiences like behind-the-scenes airport tours, tower visits, and museum excursions, with details coming early next year.

Attendees planning for the full experience are encouraged to arrive Thursday, June 11 and depart Monday, June 15.

More Single-Day Ticket Options Coming

Based on strong demand for the 2025 Sunday-only passes, FSA will introduce single-day tickets for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in 2026.

“The full three-day event is always the best experience,” said Coyle. “But these new ticket options make it easier for locals and those with limited availability to participate.”

Details and pricing will be shared on the FSA Discord, with attendee registration opening in December.

Those unable to attend in person can still watch online via the FSA Captain subscription or a one-time $15 livestream pass.

Exhibitor and Sponsor Registration Now Open

FlightSimExpo invites software developers, hardware makers, non-profits, and community organizations to participate as sponsors, exhibitors, or speakers.

Exhibit booths start at $750 and include furnishings, internet, electricity, and event passes. Speaking opportunities remain free of charge.

More details are available at flightsimexpo.com/partner.

The Venue: Saint Paul RiverCentre

FlightSimExpo 2026 returns to the modern and centrally located Saint Paul RiverCentre, just 8 miles from Minneapolis/Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)—a hub offering more than 130 nonstop destinations worldwide. The venue is also accessible via Amtrak’s Borealis and Empire Builder routes.

Visitors will be just 20 minutes from the iconic Mall of America®, one of the largest entertainment and retail destinations in the U.S.

Attendees can take advantage of discounted hotel rates and exclusive airfare savings from Delta, United, Southwest, Air Canada, WestJet, and others. Details are available at flightsimexpo.com/discounts.

Registration for attendees opens in December.

About FlightSimExpo

FlightSimExpo is one of the world’s premier flight simulation conventions, drawing nearly 10,000 attendees since 2018. Past events have been held in Las Vegas, Orlando, San Diego, Houston, and Providence. The expo is produced by Flight Simulation Association, a community-driven group of developers, simmers, and real-world pilots dedicated to helping more people get started in flight simulation.