The Professional Helicopter Pilots Association is launched.

The Professional Helicopter Pilots Association is launched. ALPA recognizes PHPA to represent U.S. helicopter pilots at the International Federation of Airline Pilots Association (IFALPA): PHPA President elected as Vice Chairman of the IFALPA Helicopter committee.

New Orleans, June 10, 2002: PHPA, a non-profit international organization headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana is launched and has begun serving the helicopter pilot community. The association was formed to promote professionalism, safety, regulatory representation, education, standards and training for the continued growth of the profession. PHPA does this through industry lobbying, promotion of safety research and advancements, and seeking improvements in pilot and employer relations.

PHPA President Butch Grafton and Secretary Treasurer Jack Bower recently returned from Norway where they attended the International Federation of Airline Pilots Association (IFALPA) Helicopter committee meeting. ALPA, which is the only, recognized organization within the U.S. to be a member of IFALPA has sanctioned PHPA to represent U.S. helicopter pilots at the IFALPA Helicopter Committee. While there, Mr. Grafton was elected as vice chairman of the helicopter committee. This not only gives PHPA recognition on the national level but also represents the first time that U.S. helicopter pilots have had a voice at the international level.

Through PHPA's web site, www.autorotate.com and PHPA's Autorotate magazine, members will have access to updated helicopter news from around the world, research and education information, and a Forum to discuss current issues with fellow helicopter pilots from around the world. Employers will be able to list job openings for qualified applicants free of charge along with wage and benefit information. The web site also provides an online resume service, which will be maintained, for PHPA members who wish to contact those employers. There are many other benefits available to members and membership is open to all present, past, and future helicopter pilots.