Helicopters’ Mission Critical Role in Society
Helicopters’ unique characteristics, such as Vertical Take-off and Landing (VTOL) and the ability to hover for extended periods, are ideal for tasks that were previously not possible with other aircraft or tasks that were time or labor-intensive to accomplish on the ground. For example, helicopters have been instrumental as air ambulances for emergency medical assistance when a ground ambulance cannot easily or quickly reach the scene or transport them to a medical facility in time. Besides this, helicopters are involved in various operations such as offshore energy, aerial firefighting, commercial air transport, private and business aviation, search and rescue, law enforcement, news and media, military uses, and more. Helicopters play a significant role in supporting various missions essential to society.
FreeFlight Systems’ Role in the Helicopter Industry
Specializing in technologies and solutions that bring the benefits of the NextGen airspace transformation to all segments of aviation, including helicopters, FreeFlight Systems annually exhibits at HAI’s Heli-Expo. To improve the safety, efficiency, and affordability of flying, FreeFlight Systems designs, manufactures, sells, and supports high-integrity avionics systems. FreeFlight Systems provides rotorcraft modular and scalable products that can be used as stand-alone or as fully integrated systems. FreeFlight Systems offers a wide range of reliable and robust radar altimeters and Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) ground systems, receivers, and transponders. With industry-leading radar altimetry and ADS-B solutions, FreeFlight Systems improves pilot situational awareness, aircraft visibility, and flight safety. The size, weight, and compatibility of FreeFlight Systems’ solutions make them ideal for straightforward installation in virtually all helicopter airframes.
HAI Promotes the Growth and Sustainability of the Helicopter Industry
Recognizing the significance of this industry, Helicopter Association International (HAI) promotes safety, community compatibility, professionalism, innovation, and the economic viability of the VTOL industry. HAI has provided support, services, and industry safety guidelines for the international helicopter community for more than 70 years. HAI is a global leader in leveraging, innovating, advocating, and expanding the unique operational capabilities of vertical flight on behalf of its members and for the benefit of society. HAI’s Government Affairs team advocates to ensure legislators understand the implications of proposals that restrict airspace and operations or impose additional regulatory burdens. HAI assists organizations with effective risk management with resources, tools, and programs designed specifically for vertical flight operators, pilots, aviation mechanics/engineers, and safety professionals. HAI also offers several education programs presented by vertical aviation experts. These include weekly webinars, online and in-person courses, regional and specific conferences, and more. To promote engagement within the industry, HAI annually hosts the HAI Heli-Expo tradeshow to connect industry professionals from across the world.
With proven expertise in avionics specifically designed to withstand the rigors of rotorcraft operating environments, FreeFlight Systems significantly contributes to the VTOL industry and aligns with HA’s mission to promote safety, professionalism, innovation, and the economic viability of the VTOL industry. FreeFlight Systems is proud to be a member of the HAI and support the instrumental use of helicopters in our society.
