Facilitating Business Aviation To Support Relief Efforts

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has activated its Humanitarian Emergency response Operator (HERO) database to aid in mobilizing the business and general aviation communities for relief operations in the Southeastern U.S. following the crippling impact of Hurricane Helene.

The database permits people and businesses to enter information about the availability of their aircraft, personnel, equipment, and other assets that may be deployed in aid missions. The information from the database is provided to government agencies as well as non-governmental organizations when they request it. The people in the database represent those in the aviation community who are able to immediately join in the disaster response and relief efforts.

It has been activated previously for the same purpose in the aftermath of hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters. Business aircraft, particularly helicopters, can get in and out of locations where airliners or ground vehicles are unable due to destroyed roads and airports. With the ability to land and take off from unpaved strips or landing zones, aircraft are uniquely suited to providing meaningful first responses to natural disasters.

Doug Carr, SVP of Safety, Security, Sustainability, and International Operations for NBAA explained: “Business aircraft have long played an essential role in providing relief for people and communities in need in times of crisis. They are often able to turn roadways into runways, or hillsides into heliports, in order to reach isolated locations. NBAA’s HERO database offers one-stop access to those in business aviation who want to lend a helping hand with their aircraft and other assets.”

Helene has inflicted widespread and severe damage across the southeast, especially in Alabama, Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, and Virginia.

FMI:  nbaa.org/