History

The British Helicopter Advisory Board (BHAB) was formed in 1969 at the instigation of leading members of the UK helicopter industry who realised that it lacked a single authoritative voice speaking for the whole helicopter industry as was the case in other aviation sectors. At that time helicopter activity in support of off-shore oil exploration and production was expanding rapidly. In November 2008, the name of the BHAB was changed to the British Helicopter Association (BHA).

Mission

The BHA promotes the compliant, safe and considerate use of rotorcraft throughout the UK. Its activities are directed by a Council of Management. The BHA encourages European harmonisation through its membership of the European Helicopter Association. The BHA negotiates with government departments, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), on behalf of the industry.

Achievements

The BHA works on behalf of its membership in two ways: in co-operation with other industry representative organisations, the BHA has secured the exclusion of rotorcraft from onerous aviation security regulation and air passenger duty. Working independently, the BHA has obtained significant concessions within the regulatory AOC charges scheme and provides expertise to support the European Helicopter Association. The BHA designed and now conducts courses for Flight Operations post holders in conjunction with the UK regulator.