About
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Role of the IHOPIHOP is a non-profit making organisation, whose main objective is to promote the use of helicopters throughout the country and to bring to the attention of potential users the advantages of using or owning a helicopter. It is also concerned that helicopter operations are conducted safely and responsibly and that proper attention is paid to environmental issues. These objectives are pursued by liaising with government departments, local authorities, the Irish Aviation Authority, public services, private industry and exchange of information with other helicopter organisations outside of Ireland. The IHOP encourages moves towards European harmonisation. Why IHOP? Helicopter operators and other supporters join IHOP because they plan to be in business over the long term. Membership indicates a willingness to contribute to the wider well-being of the helicopter industry. It also implies high standards. Operators help customers plan the most efficient and cost-effective way of completing a task, and carry it out competently and safely. The Committee
Raising public awareness The public perception of the helicopter has improved in recent years, mainly due to its demonstrated success in emergency service roles. However, its versatility is still not recognised by many of the general public and IHOP seeks to correct this impression whenever possible. In addition to regular communications with its members. This reports the diverse contributions which helicopters regularly make to the community and which are often unnoticed by the specialist trade press, let alone the general media. Expanding into Europe Constantly protective of the freedoms enjoyed by helicopters in Great Britain, the BHA supports the gradual adoption of Joint Aviation Requirements throughout Europe. Representatives on influential committees ensure that the home case is supported. As a result of this activity the BHA is widely regarded as one of the more effective helicopter trade associations in Europe. At the same time it strives to establish a level playing field for its members working elsewhere within the European Union. Protecting the environmentIHOP encourages organisations to provide helipads and supports members when others attempt to restrict helicopter access - as long as there is no practical or environmental reason why it should not be allowed. It also urges pilots to observe Codes of Conduct, to fly responsibly and to minimise the impact of operations which might affect people's enjoyment of open spaces. Contributing to safety IHOP is proud of the civil helicopter's commendable safety record over land and sea and seeks to improve it further by eliminating potential risk through technical improvement and procedural methods... Emergency services The ability of helicopters to rescue accident victims both on land and sea and to transport them to safety and/or medical aid wins much praise for the determination and initiative of the helicopter crews. Uniting the industry IHOP acts as a forum where areas of common interest can be addressed; it is a single point of contact for rotorcraft topics. The spirit of commercial competition thrives between member companies but it is set aside whenever subjects of mutual concern such as safety are discussed. Reducing ‘red tape’ Aircraft operators, in common with many businesses, are faced with a significant administrative workload from their regulatory bodies. While acknowledging the need for regulation to maintain common safety standards, IHOP strives to minimise the impact on members' ability to compete in the international marketplace. |