Helicopter Association International’s mission is to advance the helicopter as a safe, effective method of commerce. That mission charges each of us to commit ourselves to promoting the highest level of safety and efficiency. This culture of professionalism is nurtured when we encourage and recognize outstanding achievement and contributions made by individuals and organizations. Each year the “Salute to Excellence” Awards program recognizes these outstanding achievements.

The Pilot of the Year Award is one such award. This award recognizes an outstanding single feat performed by a helicopter pilot during the year, or extraordinary professionalism over a period of time. Nominees must be active helicopter pilots. The Pilot of the Year Award is the oldest of HAI’s “Salute to Excellence” awards – nominate today!

The simplest way to nominate for the Pilot of the Year Award, or any other of the nine awards, is to complete an online Nomination Form on HAI’s Web site – go to www.rotor.com, click on “Events” then “Salute to Excellence.” You may also download 2011 Call for Nominations booklets and mail completed Nomination Forms to Helicopter Association International, 1635 Prince Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314-2818, or fax to 703-683-4745. Supporting documents such as awards, letters of recommendation, and newspaper and magazine articles etc that relate to your nomination will aid consideration in the selection process. These items must be suitable for photocopying and can either be mailed, faxed, or scanned and sent as an email attachment to rotor@rotor.com.

HAI requires all nominees to acknowledge in writing that they are aware of their nomination and, if selected, that they would be willing to share biographical information and photos with HAI, as well as accept the award in person at the “Salute to Excellence” dinner. If the recipient is unable to attend the dinner, they must designate a person to accept the award on their behalf. An Acknowledgement Form is available in the 2011 Call for Nominations booklet online and must be submitted with the nomination for consideration.

All nominations for the 2011 awards must be received by Friday, December 3, 2010. For more information, contact HAI’s Communications Department at 703-683-4646, or email rotor@rotor.com. For more information on HELI-EXPO 2011, please visit www.rotor.com.