Today (13 December 2023) marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of Helicopter Association International (HAI), racking up three-quarters of a century dedicated to growing, shaping, protecting, and strengthening the vertical aviation industry. HAI was founded on this day in 1948 as the Helicopter Council by a group of 16 visionary individuals. Since then, the association has become the representative body for thousands of operators, pilots, maintenance technicians, manufacturers, and suppliers across 65 countries.
Over the decades, the association has advocated for the vertical aviation industry before governments at the international and local levels. Its mission remains unwavering: to provide opportunities for current and future forms of vertical aviation to flourish through advocacy, connection, and collaboration while elevating safety throughout the global industry.
Marking this significant milestone, HAI President and CEO James Viola expressed the organisation’s deep gratitude for the support and dedication of its members and partners: “Seventy-five years ago, a small group of visionaries had the foresight to establish an organisation that would become the beacon for the vertical aviation industry. Today, HAI stands as a testament to their vision and the collective efforts of our members, volunteers, and staff. We are thrilled to celebrate this momentous occasion, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to promote vertical aviation worldwide.”
“Looking to the future, HAI remains committed to the industry while embracing the expansion and development of new aircraft, infrastructure, and uses for vertical flight,” adds Viola. “Our core mission is and will remain: to support our members and promote vertical aviation’s critical role in creating safe, prosperous, and connected communities around the world.”
