Resource Hub HAI and the European Helicopter Association (EHA) have formed an official partnership to increase collaboration between the two organizations on initiatives and programs supporting the international vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) industry. EHA Chair Peter Moeller and HAI President and CEO James Viola announce a partnership between their organizations. (HAI/Rob Volmer photo) EHA Chair Peter Moeller announced the news Nov. 16 at the 2021 EUROPEAN ROTORS VTOL Show and Safety Conference in Cologne, Germany, with HAI President and CEO James A. Viola joining him on stage (see photo above). “The European Helicopter Association and Helicopter Association International share common priorities, interests, and goals in promoting safety, professionalism, and innovative advancements within the industry, as well as driving to improve the economic viability of the VTOL sector,” Moeller said at the event. “This partnership strengthens the already-close relationship between HAI and EHA and represents our commitment to work together to meet our aligned goals,” added Viola. “We both want to see a VTOL industry with zero accidents that can continue its work on behalf of society while being economically vibrant, growing, diverse, and sustainable. By combining our resources and efforts, we will see increased efficiencies that will in turn help HAI and EHA make a greater impact. We firmly believe our members and the international VTOL community will benefit from this agreement.” While the official partnership doesn’t go into effect until Jan. 1, 2022, the two groups have already begun exploring opportunities to leverage their combined membership and strength on programs that bolster the industry and support their members. On the international level, the two are both active in the Vertical Aviation Safety Team and within HAI’s International Partnership Program. At the regional level, HAI provided EHA with marketing and operational support as the latter association organized the first edition of EUROPEAN ROTORS this year. The EHA represents the helicopter community in 11 European countries; HAI represents the international helicopter industry with a membership of more than 1,100 companies and 16,000 industry professionals in more than 65 countries.
