A weekly update illustrating some of the ways that Helicopter Association International (HAI) is “keeping the rotors turning” for our members.
Editor’s Note: The HAI staff is working diligently on preparations for HAI HELI-EXPO 2019. Despite region-wide closures of government and schools for a snow and ice storm (see large photo above), a group of employees is working at the office today to ensure the show gets off on the right foot next week. We’re looking forward to warmer weather in Atlanta!
Cade Clark, Vice President, Government Affairs
This week, both chambers of the US Congress left Washington, DC for the President’s Day district work week. Legislators will return for legislative business on Monday, February 25th.
Last Friday, Congress overwhelmingly passed a compromise spending measure to avert a second partial government shutdown. President Trump signed the bill providing $1.375 billion in border security funding as well as funding for the six outstanding appropriations bills through the end of this fiscal year. The FAA was included in the spending deal and is likewise funded through the end of the fiscal year.
HAI is working within a coalition to secure appropriation funding for the recent mechanic and pilot grant program that was sponsored by US Senator Jim Inhofe (R-OK) and included in the recent FAA reauthorization bill. HAI is working with coalition allies to educate relevant committees and members of Congress on the need to fully fund this new program.
HAI is also busy preparing for the upcoming HAI HELI-EXPO in Atlanta. At Expo, committee members of the Utah Rotor Pathway Program will meet to continue development and roll out of the program.
Allison McKay, Vice President, Helicopter Foundation International
In keeping with Helicopter Foundation International (HFI) principles to support the next generation of our industry, Allison attended the 10th Annual Flight School Operators Conference (see smaller photo above), hosted by the Flight School Association of North America (FSANA). The foundation continues to seek information about education financing for students pursuing careers as helicopter maintenance technicians and pilots.