Alexandria, Va. (February 25, 2019) – Helicopter Association International (HAI) is pleased to announce that Federal Aviation Association (FAA) Acting Administrator Daniel K. Elwell is scheduled to attend HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia, on March 5, 2019.

Administrator Elwell will participate in a “fireside chat” with HAI president and CEO Matthew Zuccaro, where they will discuss a selection of topics relevant to the helicopter industry. This conversation will take place at HAI’s Annual Membership Meeting and Breakfast.

Those who are interested in viewing the discussion but who are unable to attend the meeting can view the event through live streaming on HAI’s Facebook page. Other live streaming sites may become available too.

“We are grateful that Administrator Elwell can take time from his busy schedule to attend HAI HELI-EXPO and address issues that are significant to us,” says Zuccaro. “This is a pivotal time in aviation, with a number of challenges, such as workforce development and the integration of unmanned aircraft systems and autonomous flight into the NAS. Being able to hear from the FAA Administrator on these and other safety, regulatory, and operational issues is a huge help to the helicopter community. We deeply appreciate the contributions of Administrator Elwell and several other FAA representatives to our show.”

The discussion between Administrator Elwell and Mr. Zuccaro is scheduled to begin at approximately 8:30 AM (EST) and will last 15 – 20 minutes. Mr. Elwell is also participating in the ribbon-cutting ceremony to open HAI HELI-EXPO at 10:15 AM.

Because of his responsibilities leading the FAA, Administrator Elwell’s schedule is subject to change without notice.

HAI HELI-EXPO is the world’s largest helicopter-specific event, annually drawing thousands of visitors from around the world. In addition to a trade show floor covering hundreds of thousands of square feet, the event includes numerous professional education courses, safety classes and the related ROTOR Safety Challenge, committee meetings and forums, and networking opportunities. Nearly 60 helicopters, including mock-ups of urban taxi concepts, will appear on the show floor.

“We expect that Administrator Elwell will find our show as impressive as any first-time visitor does,” adds Zuccaro. “Our show produces significant business for the international helicopter community, attracting attendees and exhibitors from every aspect of our industry. From helicopter manufacturers to repair facilities to suppliers of parts and services, everyone is here.”

HAI is the professional trade association for the international helicopter industry. HAI’s membership represents 1,800 aviation businesses, which safely operate more than 4,500 helicopters approximately 2.3 million hours each year in more than 73 nations. 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.