Dallas, Texas -- The Professional Helicopter Pilots Association International (PHPA), a council of the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU), is proud to announce its pilot member, Captain Jay Slagel has been awarded the Helicopter Association International (HAI) Pilot of the Year award. The award was given at HAI’s Heli-Expo 2012, held February 12-14 in Dallas Texas.

Captain Slagel of OPEIU Local 107 was recognized for his role in safely landing an S-92 helicopter with 18 people aboard after a tail-roto failure – an extremely difficult maneuver. Captain Slagel is quick to point out he didn’t do it alone, giving credit to his co-pilot and fellow Local 107 member, Captain Chuck Melton.

“Helicopter pilots face some of the most dangerous situations known in aviation, and as Captains Slagel and Melton proved, they are among the most skilled and professional in the industry,” said PHPA President Steven Rush. “PHPA is extremely proud of Captains Slagel and Melton, and all of our pilots, for the tremendous job they do every day ensuring the safety of their passengers, crew and the general public.”

OPEIU represents approximately 3,000 helicopter pilots throughout the United States and Canada.