HFI Announces Extension for 2011 Scholarship Application

Alexandria, VA, December 7, 2010 – Helicopter Foundation International (HFI) is pleased to announce that the deadline to apply for the 2011 series of scholarships has been extended to December 31, 2010. HFI scholarships are designed to answer the need for qualified helicopter pilots and maintenance technicians, and to provide further training for safety managers and other professionals in the safety field.

• Commercial Helicopter Pilot Rating Scholarship (four (4) $5,000)

• Maintenance Technician Certificate Scholarship (six (6) $2,500)

• Bill Sanderson Aviation Maintenance Technician Scholarship (seven (7) up to $1,600)

• Michelle North Scholarship for Safety (one (1) $3,000)

• Baines Simmons Americas Effective Event Investigation (one (1) $1,350)

• Baines Simmons Americas Safety Management Systems for Leaders (one (1) $600)

• Baines Simmons Americas Introduction to Safety Management Systems (one (1) $600)

To apply, visit: www.helicopterfoundation.org, and click on "Programs", then click on "Scholarships". All applications must be postmarked no later than December 31, 2010, and received at HFI by January 10, 2011. Mail to: HFI Scholarships, 1635 Prince Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314-2818. Electronic submissions (preferred) can be emailed to: scholarships@rotor.com. Neatness, completeness, and accuracy do count. Additional pages requested must be supplied. Be sure to carefully read the requirements for each scholarship before applying.

Scholarship winners will be announced prior to HAI’s HELI-EXPO 2011, March 5-8, in Orlando, Florida. Winners will receive a full registration to HELI-EXPO 2011 and a complimentary ticket to the "Salute to Excellence" dinner. Winners will be introduced at the HELI-EXPO 2011 Membership Breakfast. Winners will be responsible for all transportation and housing expenses.

Founded in 1983, the Helicopter Foundation International is a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization, dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history and heritage of the helicopter and of the industry’s service to mankind, helping to promote the helicopter industry as an exciting career choice for young people. HFI’s mission is: Preserving our Heritage – Building our Future.

HAI is a professional trade association representing 3,000 plus members, in 74 nations, who safely operate more than 5,000 helicopters approximately 2.3 million hours each year. HAI is dedicated to the promotion of the helicopter as a safe, effective method of commerce, and to the advancement of the international helicopter community.