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Since François Lassale joined VAI as the association’s president and CEO in October, he has been talking with and listening to industry members worldwide. His conversations with operators are always strikingly similar, focusing on operational pressure, workforce shortages, regulatory complexity, and safer operations. Watch this first edition of François’s Aviation Reflections to learn what VAI achieved in these areas in 2025—achievements made possible by the participation and perspectives of our members.

(HeliOps magazine) – The Dublin, Ireland–based helicopter leasing and finance company plans to finalize the transaction for the European operator in early 2026.

The FAA is requesting comments by Feb. 5, 2026, on this proposed airworthiness directive (AD), which would require repetitive inspections of the right-hand forward transmission support-beam fitting for cracks. It would also require repairs, if necessary, and submission to the FAA of data on any previous repairs and replaced fittings.

Safran Helicopter Engines USA President and CEO Thierry Derrien thanked 400 staff members for their dedication to the company’s mission during an event in Grand Prairie.

Jakarta, Indonesia–based Derazona will become the first operator to use the H160 for offshore energy support in Southeast Asia. The helicopter will also conduct utility and commercial passenger transport operations.

King Schools has awarded two Liberty University School of Aeronautics students with $5,000 scholarships and lifetime access to online training courses.

(The Air Current) – The Jan. 29 midair crash involving a military helicopter and a regional passenger jet near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (KDCA) was the result of a collapse of the protections designed to keep aviation safe—and the institutions that design and maintain them.

The US House of Representatives Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure passed the Aviation Funding Solvency Act on Dec. 18. The legislation would insulate the FAA, its workforce, and the US air traffic control (ATC) system during any future government shutdowns.

Joby Aviation and parking operator Metropolis Technologies plan to develop 25 electric air taxi vertiports across the United States.

The Spanish government has issued contracts for Airbus to provide 50 H145Ms for the Spanish Army; 31 NH90s for the Army, Navy, and Air and Space Force; and 13 H145s and 6 H175Ms for the Air and Space Force.