HAI expresses support for new flight-time logging regulations.
Helicopter Association International (HAI) working groups were integral in forming a response to a recent FAA proposal that would expand the logging of public-use aircraft flight time, including second-in-command flight time, to count toward annual hourly requirements. This is one of many instances where the HAI working groups provide their operational intelligence to inform an association position or to address a broad industry problem.
The Training, Aerial Firefighting, and Restricted/Experimental Category Working Groups were asked for their thoughts on the FAA’s proposal. All of the comments were supportive.
“HAI believes this is a step in the right direction for both the FAA and industry,” President and CEO James Viola said in his letter to the regulator.
The proposed revision expands the authority for pilots conducting public aircraft operations (PAO) to credit their flight time toward FAA civil regulatory requirements. Also, the proposal permits second-in-command pilots to log their PAO flight time in specific cases. Ultimately, the proposal promotes the use of second-in-command pilots where they may not be otherwise required, ultimately enhancing safety.
HAI working groups meet regularly to address the full scope of industry issues, such as the shortage of maintenance personnel and pilots, pressing certification and safety concerns, and the integration of next-generation aircraft into the US National Airspace System. The groups are highly valued and have a significant positive impact on our industry.
“We encourage input from our members to ensure that we are meeting the needs of vertical aviation,” Viola said. “HAI’s advocacy on behalf of our industry would be less impactful without the hard work and dedication of our working groups.”
Viola called upon HAI members to consider joining a working group to better the industry while growing their careers and networks. To get involved, visit the HAI website.
Current HAI Working Groups include:
- Aerial Firefighting and Natural Resources Working Group
- Air Medical Services Working Group
- Aviation Insurance Working Group
- Flight Operations Working Group
- Fly Neighborly/Environmental Working Group
- Helicopter Tour Operators Working Group
- Restricted and Experimental Category Aircraft Working Group
- Safety Working Group
- Technical and Maintenance Working Group
- Training Working Group
- Unmanned Aircraft Systems Working Group
- Utilities, Patrol, and Construction Working Group
- Vertical Flight Infrastructure Sub-Working Group
- Workforce Development Working Group
