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(KPLC) – According to local officials, the crop-dusting helicopter struck a power line and went down Jul. 23 in Thibodaux, resulting in the death of the pilot.

The companies plan to conduct the first flight of the helicopter demonstrator, based on the Robinson R66 platform, in late 2026.

The rule, Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC), makes sweeping changes to the light-sport aircraft category and to sport pilot privileges. VAI will review the final rule and its potential impacts and will share a member-exclusive VAI Debrief in the coming weeks.

The helicopter dealer has finalized the sale of a VIP-configured 2014 Bell 429 to the Indonesian operator.

The most decisive word often missing from a pilot’s vocabulary is no. When no is the correct answer, it is the only answer, explains Jessica Meiris, helicopter pilot, FAA Safety Team representative, and VAI ambassador.

The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has determined the probable cause of the accident to be the pilot’s failure to see and avoid power lines during an aerial application flight.

VAI’s board is navigating a period of transition following recent internal actions and leadership departures, according to an open letter issued by the current and immediate past board chairs. The association says the search for a new president and CEO is in its final stages, with an announcement expected in August. VAI members: read the open letter to learn more.

The US Helicopter Safety Team (USHST) is offering mental health support through its Peer Pilot Program for helicopter pilots and aircrew members involved in responding to the flooding disaster along the Guadalupe River in Texas. VAI proudly supports this important work.

(Transport Topics) – Joby Aviation expects to have five aircraft in the final phases of FAA certification next year with commercial flights starting in early 2026, according to its CEO.

The FAA is accepting comments through Sep. 5, 2025, on this proposed airworthiness directive (AD), which would require a one-time inspection of the cargo swing emergency-release control and corrective actions, if necessary.