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.


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