The rotorcraft industry is confronting a time of generational change. With recent technological developments such as high speed, multi-rotor and even electric powered motors becoming a more realistic possibility in the coming years, it is critical for all countries and stakeholders to work together to continue its pursuit of innovation and safety, while protecting the growth of the rotorcraft industry.
The European Helicopter Association (EHA), and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) will return to the stage at Helitech International this year as part of the EHA Rotorcraft Seminars. This series of informative sessions focusing on rule making and legislation in the rotorcraft industry will provide attendees with the opportunity to interact with association leaders as they discuss priorities for the industry and the challenges it currently faces.
Taking place on Tuesday 11 October, Jaime Arqué, EHA Chairman and President of the Spanish Helicopter Operators Association (AECA & Helicópteros) will welcome the audience and introduce keynote speaker Ricardo Génova Galván, Flight Standard Director at EASA. Opening the show’s seminar and workshop programme he will update attendees on the latest progress of the association while outlining his visions and priorities for the future.
Used in a wide range of operations from search and rescue (SAR) missions, helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) to transportation, it is crucial for the industry to have a collaborative voice that ensures the unique characteristics and the vital services that helicopters provide to the community are fully recognised by the general public and industry institutions.
Kai Bauer, Safety Programmes Manager at EASA, will discuss how EASA has evolved its regulatory framework to streamline and increase the effectiveness of the consultation with Member States and the wider industry. Speaking about the new advisory structure in depth he will show how it is set to strengthen collaboration between the agency and the helicopter community.
The day will culminate with an interactive session to tackle some of the rotorcraft industry’s main concerns. Roel Huysmans, OSD Expert at EASA, Bas van der Weide, Air Operations Team Leader at EASA and Jaime Arqué, form the panel and will present on topics including Age 60, refuelling, HEMS operations, oxygen requirement, UAVs and CAT single engine helicopter operations over hostile congested environments. Audiences will be actively encouraged to participate by sharing their views and posing questions to the panel of industry experts.
Jaime Arqué commented: “As the voice of the rotorcraft industry in Europe, the European Helicopter Association is resolute in our pursuit of safety, while defending the growth of our industry. We work vigorously to represent and promote all sectors of the industry as being economically important, safe, sustainable, and essential to the success of European and National economies. Although progress is being made, it is important that all countries and stakeholders work together on a united path, to achieve success.
“We consider Helitech International to be the ideal platform for us to raise awareness of our work, and for the rotorcraft sector to have a dedicated show where networking, business opportunities and a full seminar programme are accessible to the whole community.”
Helitech International takes place at the RAI Amsterdam from 11-13 October 2016. For further information, please visit www.helitechinternational.com.
