HeliOffshore, the global association for safety in the offshore helicopter industry, announced today the appointment of Mr. Lance F. Bospflug to its Board.

Mr. Bospflug, President and Chief Operating Officer at helicopter operator PHI Inc., replaces Mr. Al Gonsoulin, CEO of PHI Inc. and a founding member of HeliOffshore.

HeliOffshore Board Chairman, Mr. Bill Chiles, welcomed Mr. Bospflug and thanked Mr. Gonsoulin:

“On behalf of the Board and more than 100 HeliOffshore members, I welcome Lance. He brings an exceptional record of safety leadership and operational expertise. Our global industry will benefit from his knowledge as we collaborate to take safety to higher levels,” he said.

“I also want to record my deep thanks to Al Gonsoulin, who has made an immense contribution to our industry and to safety – through HeliOffshore and for many decades before,” said Mr. Chiles.

Responding, Mr. Gonsoulin said: “It has been my pleasure to serve on the HeliOffshore Board as a founding member. I’m stepping down to allow Lance to contribute his vast knowledge. My decision to step down was made easy knowing my seat will be in Lance’s exceptionally capable hands.  He will play a key role in continuing to improve helicopter safety, worldwide.”

Mr. Bospflug said of his appointment: “I’m enthusiastic about joining the HeliOffshore Board.  I look forward to working with board members, Gretchen Haskins, and the team at HeliOffshore as we continue to expand industry-wide safety programs.”

Since its foundation in October 2014, HeliOffshore has enabled a global collaboration that is enhancing safety in offshore helicopter operations, worldwide. HeliOffshore Chief Executive Officer, Gretchen Haskins, said: “Lance has been an active contributor as PHI President. As a Board member, he will help to direct even more sharply our industry-wide actions so they have the greatest impact on frontline safety.

“Al’s leadership and unswerving safety commitment have been crucial to achieving a joined-up safety strategy across our industry. I look forward to recognising Al’s momentous contribution at our Annual Conference and AGM,” said Mrs. Haskins.

The HeliOffshore Conference and AGM runs from 13-15 May 2017, and brings together leaders from across the offshore helicopter industry.