The Heli Industry Seems Better Equipped Than Most To Ride Out The Economy

No one has to tell you that the aviation world is getting clobbered... by the economy, awful press and some truly poor lawmaking. In a world where it seems we have no end of hazards to be wary of, the last thing we needed was a few more. but, then again, we simply persevere.

Most prominent among the aero-survivors at this early point in the eco-debacle, is the helo industry... which seems to be staying fairly healthy despite the miasma that surrounds us. That was particularly evident at the recently concluded HAI Heli-Expo, which ANN attended in Anaheim, California.

Heli-Expo 2009 came to a close in Anaheim on Tuesday, February 24th, with all indicators pointing to a record breaking show, according to the folks at HAI. While a total of 17,373 participates attended the show over all three days last year, Heli-Expo had attracted 17,321 by only the second day this year - with final attendee figures tallying a most positive 17,995.

Five-hundred and eighty-five exhibitors showcased their products and services. Sixty-five helicopters were displayed on the showroom floor. Exhibitor space covered 259,400 net square feet and featured avionics, accessories, components, and related products, all under one roof!

Exhibitors reported high activity at their booths, and vendors were able to interact with thousands of attendees on the floor. HAI committee meetings and educational seminars were well attended, and this year’s Heli-Expo Job Fair was also a success, with 35 employers and more than 550 jobseekers participating. The Heli-Expo job fair allowed jobseekers to meet with employers and discuss opportunities in the international helicopter community.

Following voting for the HAI Board of Directors, the newly elected winners are David Chevalier, CEO of Blue Hawaiian Helicopters; Mark Gibson, Vice President of Timberland Logging; and Torbjorn ("TC") Corell, Chief Pilot of Southern California Edison. The new members of the executive committee of the Board of Directors are Mark Gibson, Chairman; David Chevalier, Vice Chairman; Art Ashton, Treasurer; and Gale Wilson, Assistant Treasurer.

The “Salute to Excellence” Awards Banquet was held Monday night in the Marquis Ballroom at the Anaheim Marriott. The highlight of the banquet was a video paying tribute to award winners, recognizing their outstanding contributions to the international helicopter community.

Heli-Expo 2010 will take place in Houston, Texas February 21-23, 2010. Mark your calendars!

Aero-TV Takes A Very Positive Look At Heli-Expo 2009!

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