March 01, 2010

When the HAA closed, the helicopter industry was left with no group representation. So AOPA has formed a Helicopter Committee and invited former members of the HAA to join AOPA.

Peter Holstein (Aerowasp Helicopters) has been appointed as a director on the board of AOPA. Peter Cook (chief pilot Westpac Rescue Helicopter) has been appointed as AOPA’s representative on the AMSA consultative forum. AOPA President Phillip Reiss says the inclusion of helicopters within the AOPA will be on an equal basis with fixed wing.

“There may be some issues unique to helicopters, though, which is why we have set up this committee headed by experienced helicopter operators.”

“We consider the Helicopter Committee will be mutually beneficial, because we have common goals in the preservation of our right to fly without undue restriction or unnecessary regulation.”