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In this issue: President Trump issued an executive order aimed at streamlining federal wildland fire governance and enhancing wildfire prevention and response; VAI Northeastern US Regional Representative Josh Rousseau reports on his activities, including successful efforts to defeat New York State legislation to impose a “noise tax” on helicopter operations and successful efforts to amend […]

Due to the efforts of a coalition of stakeholders led by the VAI Government Affairs team, the New York State government’s regularly scheduled legislative session concluded this week without passage of a “noise tax” on helicopter operations.

The New York City (NYC) Council will soon vote on Int. 0026-A, which will restrict nonessential helicopter operations at city heliports to fully electric-powered helicopters. VAI and our industry partners—the Eastern Regional Helicopter Council, National Business Aviation Association, General Aviation Manufacturers Association, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, and National Air Transportation Association—continue to express opposition to ill-informed and shortsighted legislation like Int. 0026-A.

While 2024 saw some progress with legislative advancements for vertical aviation operators in the Northeastern United States, 2025 is already off to a rapid start.

VAI and the general aviation industry commend the recent decision by the US District Court, District of Hawaii, to overturn a section of Hawaii Act 311 that imposed reporting requirements on air tour operators in the state.

(ROTOR) – Reflections on Lahaina, Maui, relief efforts.

(ROTOR) – HAI has developed a strategic plan aimed at positioning the vertical aviation industry for growth.

(ROTOR) – A new year promises further gains for the vertical flight industry.

(ROTOR) – HAI initiatives on sustainable fuel and workforce development move forward, while HAI and ERHC debut a noise reduction program in Washington, D.C.

(ROTOR) – Learn how pilot, rotorcraft advocate, and incoming HAI chair Jeff Smith plans to expand the association’s global reach and voice.