Helinet Aviation has appointed Allison Rakun as president, effective immediately. With her decade-long tenure at the company, Rakun is well-equipped to lead and execute Helinet's strategic plans, while focusing on financial and operational priorities to drive growth and success.

Rakun's journey within Helinet is a testament to her dedication and leadership abilities, having served in various roles including VP of marketing, VP of business development and VP of policy and strategy, among others, since 2014. Her most recent position, EVP of mission support, has further solidified her expertise in managing critical aspects of the business including finance, human resources, charter services and marketing, and has necessitated her working closely with the operations leaders within the company.

Rakun says: "It is with great honour and privilege that I assume the role of president of Helinet Aviation. I am deeply grateful to our CEO Kathryn Purwin for her confidence in me to help lead this company into the future."

Located at Van Nuys airport in Los Angeles, Helinet provides a wide range of helicopters services to the medical, news, charter, public safety, utility and commercial production markets. The company remains committed to providing its clients with the highest level of service and safety and looks forward to continuing to grow and expand under Rakun's leadership.

Outgoing president Tom Norton, who has made significant contributions to Helinet during his tenure, has stepped down. Purwin expressed her gratitude for Norton's dedicated leadership and welcomed Rakun as the new president, emphasising her deep-rooted commitment to Helinet's missions and its people. She says: "Allison has played a key role in shaping short and long-term strategy, strengthening client partnerships, modernising and optimising company policies, and spearheading initiatives to drive business development and organisational growth. Most importantly, Allison's vision for Helinet is grounded in her commitment to the success and well-being of every Helinet team member."

A graduate of California Lutheran University, Rakun holds a BSc in business administration. She led marketing at Shotover Systems for over seven years and, prior to her career in aviation, held multiple positions in the public relations industry.