Heli-Expo 2009 - Shaping up nicely

Preparation for Heli-Expo 2009 in Anaheim, California is well underway, and the show is shaping up nicely.

All indicators point to another successful convention and exposition.  Currently registrations are at 97 percent of last year’s record-breaking attendance of 17,373 aviation professionals, and exhibiting companies, featuring the latest avionics, accessories, components, and other related products.

Exhibiting companies have surpassed last year’s record number 565 and there are sixty-five helicopters slated to share the showroom floor. Exhibitors and attendees are encouraged to make hotel reservations as early as possible.  

Heli-Expo 2009 will open on Sunday, February 22, 2009, with the Annual General Membership Meeting and Breakfast where HAI President Matt Zuccaro and Chairman Patrick Corr will deliver their remarks.  This will be followed by the annual HAI press conference where journalists from the trade, business, and general media will have an opportunity to ask in-depth questions on pressing issues.  The opening ceremony begins promptly at 10:45 a.m. 

Heli-Expo is a great opportunity to mingle with other aviation professionals.  Social events, parties, dinners, receptions, and much camaraderie keep evenings exciting and great for networking. 

Other scheduled HAI events include the Membership Reception; the Job Fair, with companies from around the world seeking to fill positions on the spot; and the annual “Salute to Excellence” Awards Banquet, which will be held on February 23 at 8:00 p.m.  In addition, Helicopter Foundation International will offer a number of educational courses on days before and after the show.

On-line registration is still open. Currently, a ‘Full Registration’ package includes entrance to the exhibit hall for all three days; admission to all forums, symposia, and workshops; access to all manufacturers’ technical briefings; a one-year subscription to ROTOR magazine; a ticket to the “Salute to Excellence” Awards Banquet; and a canvas tote bag, compliments of Rolls-Royce.  The canvas bag will include the 2009 Helicopter Annual, the winter issue of ROTOR magazine, and the Heli-Expo 2009 Official Program and Exhibit Guide. 

Heli-Expo 2009, is the world’s largest helicopter gathering dedicated to the international helicopter community. The event will be held at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California, February 22 – 24, 2009.  For more information, and to register, go to www.heliexpo.com/register.