Matthew Zuccaro is to step down from his position as Helicopter Association International (HAI) president and CEO at the end of June next year. This date coincides with HAI's fiscal year and the installation of a new board of directors on 1 July, 2020.

Zuccaro has led the association since November 2005. The executive committee of the board of directors will use an executive search firm to aid in finding his successor, and will consider candidates both internal and external.

“The HAI board of directors, on behalf of the entire industry, offers its deepest appreciation to Matt for his service,” says outgoing HAI chair James Wisecup. “Through his leadership, HAI has been a leading advocate to improve the safety of helicopter operations worldwide. Matt has also been a forceful supporter for the industry in legislative and regulatory matters, saving our members and the industry at large from overburdensome legislation and regulations.”

“We wish Matt well, and we thank him for the opportunity to take the next year to select his successor thoughtfully,” adds incoming chair Jan Becker. “The board is aware of the great responsibility we have to select the next person to lead HAI into the future. Our industry is evolving at a record pace. The next HAI president must be capable of navigating through several complex issues, including the pilot and maintenance technician shortage and the safe integration of unmanned aerial systems, while continuing to provide members with tools that enhance the economic viability, safety and public acceptance of their operations.”

During an aviation career that has spanned more than 50 years, Zuccaro held several executive and operations management positions with commercial, corporate, air tour, scheduled airline and public-service helicopter operations in the northeastern United States. During his tenure with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, he served in operations management positions at John F Kennedy International airport and the Port Authority's public and private heliports.

Zuccaro received his initial helicopter flight training as a US Army aviator and served with the 7/17 Air Calvary unit in Vietnam. He holds an airline transport pilot and certified flight instructor licence; and instrument certificates for both aircraft and helicopters. He is a recipient of the HAI Pilot Safety Award for 10,000 hours of accident- and violation-free flight hours and the NBAA Pilot Safety award, as well as numerous other industry awards for his efforts and commitment to the helicopter industry.