National Transportation Safety Board Chairman Deborah A.P. Hersman announced recently that she will leave the board at the end of April to become the next president and CEO of the National Safety Council.

HAI President Matt Zuccaro noted: “Deborah Hersman has been a dedicated and effective leader for the improvement of safety in all modes of transportation, including the helicopter industry. Her hands-on, team-building approach with our industry has resulted in measurable and beneficial safety results. It has been my distinct honor to work with her over these many years during her tenure at NTSB and I look forward to our continued joint safety initiatives as she assumes her duties and responsibilities at the National Safety Council.

“We also are encouraged that NTSB Board Member, Chris Hart, will be guiding the agency through this transition period. With his focus and understanding of helicopter related issues he has been a valuable asset to our industry.”