Clouds Loom Over Sunny Helicopter Forecast

Washington, DC (PRWEB) April 9, 2008 -- The helicopter industry's unprecedented growth is expected to continue in 2008 and beyond, according to major aviation analysts.

Notably, Honeywell projects that 4,450 new civil-use turbine-powered helicopters will enter service globally within the next five years, with aeromedical, corporate, and law enforcement operators accounting for more than 65% of those sales.

These optimistic projections will be debated during a forthcoming rotorcraft webinar, "Rotorcraft's Winning Streak: How to Leverage The Helicopter Market's Growth". Sponsored by the web site Aviation Today, the event is scheduled for Thursday, April 17, 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. (ET). Register or learn more here http://www.aviationtoday.com/webinars/2008_0417.html.

The helicopter market is enjoying long-term, structural prosperity of historic dimensions. Never before has there been such demand for the special qualities of rotorcraft. Nor have civilian and military OEM coffers ever been so full.

"Estimated civil helicopter deliveries were up 25-30% in 2007 and are expected to rise again in 2008, as helicopter manufacturers increase production to satisfy strong demand for new aircraft around the world," Honeywell reports in its recently released 10th civil helicopter purchase outlook. In North America, Honeywell predicts 26% of sales will be for aeromedical, 23% for utility operators, 20% for law enforcement, and 20% for corporate.

However, as the world economy enters a recession, helicopter industry insiders these days are pondering one perplexing question: How long will the good times last? And what are the best ways to take advantage of this prosperity, while they can? The webinar on April 17 has been specifically set up to address those fears and concerns.

Since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, military and homeland defense budgets have experienced healthy increases every year, to the point where Pentagon spending is now back to Cold War levels. Much of this funding has gone to helicopters, which are considered the perfect tools for fighting terrorism and the asymmetrical guerrilla wars of the 21st century.

Meanwhile, in the civilian helicopter sector, operators in all niches continue to enjoy robust demand for their services. In turn, manufacturers report backlogs that stretch far into the future.

Sure, times are good, but many questions remain.

Can the helicopter market maintain its unprecedented growth? If a downturn is imminent, how can various helicopter industry segments protect themselves? If growth will continue in 2008, as most analysts seem to think, then what's the best way to leverage this growth for maximum advantage?

The webinar's speakers will include Matt Zuccaro, president, Helicopter Association International; Raymond Jaworowski senior aerospace analyst, Forecast International; and Jim McKenna, editor-in-chief, Rotor & Wing magazine. The moderator will be John Persinos, publisher and editorial director, Aviation Today. Register or learn more here http://www.aviationtoday.com/webinars/2008_0417.html.

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