HAI Opens Membership to Pilots, Mechanics, Students

The Helicopter Assn International (HAI) has modified its by-laws to bring more pilots and maintenance technicians into the fold. The new by-laws allow any pilot or technician to join the group provided the individual is “not an officer, director or majority owner of an organization that would normally qualify for regular or associate member classification.” During an April 17 webinar, “Rotorcraft’s Winning Streak: How to Leverage The Helicopter Market’s Growth,” presented by Aviation Today and archived on aviationtoday.com, HAI President Matt Zuccaro said, “There is definitely a pilot and maintenance technician shortage that is starting to grow. It is going to be a very critical issue [in the near future]." The group also has started "a program for young people wanting to join," Zuccaro said. "Any student involved in an aviation curriculum can join HAI for the first year for free.”  Industrywide, the need for pilots and technicians seems to be reaching critical proportions, HAI said. For related news