THE NEHA STORY

History of an Electronic News Gathering (ENG) Aviation Organization

NEHA is the former National Broadcast Pilots Association (NBPA), which was renamed as the National E-N-G Helicopter Association (NEHA) in November 2008.

The original NBPA was formed in 1984 by TV news pilot Leo Galanis with the goal of having all ENG pilots talking to each other while working in close proximity. The organization promoted meetings between local ENG crews and others with whom they shared airspace. As the global fleet of news helicopters grew, a basic safety manual was later created to provide recommended safety guidelines. The manual addressed issues such as weather minumums, aircraft separation and crew safety around the aircraft. 

These guidelines provided the framework, when in 2008 Helicopter Association International (HAI) activated its HAI ENG committee to begin an enhancement of ENG aviation safety. The HAI ENG committee, comprised of ENG aviation industry representatives from across the country, consulted with the FAA, NTSB and helicopter manufacturers. After a year of roundtables, research and national meetings, a comprehensive update was completed. NEHA supports this work and urges voluntary compliance.

Another common problem we have worked on is improperly placed temporary flight restrictions (TFR's). Occasionally, certain agencies have requested TFR's to wrongfully deny media access to important events or activities that affect the public. By FAA regulation, news media aircraft are allowed inside most TFR's. We began a dialog with the FAA and other agencies that continues today. NEHA also supports a wide range of work on safety, noise, training, and heliports.

Membership is free. Aircrews can click "Join" to get details.

Former NBPA members please re-register.