Segment Shows Resiliency Against Slumping Economy

Heli-Expo 2009 came to a close in Anaheim, CA on Tuesday, and the numbers indicate it was a record-breaking show.

Helicopter Association International says final numbers indicate 17,995 people attended the three-day event, beating last year's record total of 17,373. HAI added that attendance numbers over the first two days alone came within 52 people of last year's three-day total.

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.

HAI notes exhibitors reported high activity at their booths -- a statement backed up by conversations ANN had with several vendors, many of whom expressed happy surprise at the turnout in the face of the current economic slump. HAI committee meetings and educational seminars were also well attended, and HAI adds this year's Heli-Expo Job Fair was also a success, with 35 employers and more than 550 jobseekers participating.

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 contributions to the international helicopter community. The banquet also featured the giveaway of a Harley Davidson motorcycle, won by a lucky and delighted Juan Pablo Fernandez of San Antonio, TX.

While the show was arguably lacking in true blockbuster news events -- at least compared to years past -- the success of the event demonstrated the resiliency of the rotorcraft segment. As one exhibitor told ANN, "People who need helicopters, NEED helicopters... regardless of the economy." For helicopter manufacturers, operators, pilots, maintainers, and enthusiasts alike... that's quite welcome news indeed.

FMI: www.rotor.com