Vertical Aviation International

Congress Commended for Passing Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Bill Legislation includes key priorities for the vertical aviation industry. “We commend Congress for passing an FAA reauthorization bill that represents a substantial investment in the future of aviation,” says VAI President and CEO James Viola. “This legislation strengthens safety and paves the way for new airframes and technologies to reach the flight line while promoting economic growth and job creation.” Congress passing this bill marks a significant step in strengthening safety, enhancing infrastructure, and addressing many issues facing vertical flight and the aviation sector.  Learn more: https://lnkd.in/eF2nS8sA

#VAImembers John (right) and Martha King (left) of King Schools share truths about aviation safety at #OSH24.

We're excited to exhibit at #APSCON2024, and we hope to see you there! Stop by Booth #828 to learn how VAI is #PoweringUp the future of vertical aviation. #WeAreVAI

VAI Board Member Nicole Battjes told a great story today at #OSH24 about the many challenges she faced on her journey to become one of the most successful women aviators in Hawaii. Battjes shared her experiences to help others prepare to overcome THEIR challenges! #WomenVenture

VAI Board Member Nicole Battjes told a great story today at #OSH24 about the many challenges she faced on her journey to become one of the most successful women aviators in Hawaii. Battjes shared her experiences to help others prepare to overcome THEIR challenges! #WomenVenture

The Chilean National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) has established protected areas in the Magallanes Region of Chile, including prohibiting the use of helicopters and other aircraft for tourism within the 6.5-million-acre reserve. CONAF developed a management plan for the region’s Bernardo O’Higgins and Kawésqar National Parks. The draft management plan permits the use of helicopters and aircraft only for administrative, oversight, surveillance, military, emergency, and research purposes. Air tours are prohibited. In developing the plan, CONAF did not consult with the Chilean aviation industry or the Dirección General de Aeronáutica Civil, Chile's civil aviation authority. The Asociación Chilena de Helicópteros (ACHHEL) immediately informed the aeronautical authorities of this oversight, and the association plans to present the vertical aviation industry’s objections to the regional government. ACHHEL has already met with CONAF this month. ACCHEL has been a member of VAI's International Partnership Program since its founding in 2020. When Loreto Moraga, ACHHEL’s president, reached out to VAI for support in contesting the CONAF park management plan, we provided her with all the material we’re using to combat a similar situation in the United States, where the FAA and the National Park Service are developing air tour management plans (ATMPs) that could severely limit or eliminate air tour operations across multiple national parks. Due to significant opposition, the CONAF draft management plan is currently suspended. VAI opposes the proposed restrictions on air tour operations in the Magallanes Region, which set a worrisome precedent, particularly given CONAF's failure to consult with the aviation industry in developing its management plan. VAI advocates for balanced regulations that consider both environmental preservation and the economic contributions of the aviation industry, particularly as air tours can be environmentally less destructive than the roads and facilities required by ground-based visitors.

Far too many lives have been lost to continued flight in deteriorating weather. While there’s been some recent movement away from this trend, we can do more, as VAI Senior Director of Safety Chris Hill dramatically illustrates in this month’s Spotlight on Safety. To learn more about continuing VFR into IMC, read the accompanying article and download your FREE poster at https://rotor.org/sos.

Always good to represent Vertical Aviation International members at the EAA and FAA dinner during AirVenture. #aam #helicopters #helicopterpilot #vertiport #uam #aviationsafety #aviationindustry #vertiports #safetyculture #army #aircraftmaintenance #airforce #navy #marinecorps #coastguard #icao #easa #faa #departmentoftransportation #workforcedevelopment #pilots #mechanic #easa #faa #caa #helicopterpilot #helicopter #aam #uam #army #airforce #marines #navy #coastguard #evtol #advancedairmobility

Looking forward to chatting with seasoned aviation professionals and benefitting from their wisdom and insight on the topic of Aeronautical Decision Making and its significance for future aviators in the vertical aviation realm. Joining me are James Viola, President and CEO of Vertical Aviation International (VAI); Kimberly Hutchings, President of Whirly-Girls International; and Pete Bunce, President and CEO of the General Aviation Manufacturing Association (GAMA). As everyone in the industry knows, the universe of vertical aviation is rapidly expanding in unprecedented fashion, powered by trailblazing technology. Our panel discussion will be your opportunity to address everything from regulatory issues and safety challenges, to strategizing ways to elevate flight training efforts and master ADM readiness. See you in person Wednesday afternoon.

Love seeing all the Vertical Aviation International members scattered throughout AirVenture Grounds.