The Helicopter Association International (HAI) last week announced that Elling Halvorson, chairman of Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters, Inc., is the recipient of the association’s 2004 Lawrence D. Bell Award. The award will be presented Feb. 7, 2005, at HELI-EXPO in Anaheim, Calif., during HAI’s 44th annual “Salute to Excellence” awards ceremony. During his 37-year association with HAI, Halvorson has twice served as its chairman as well as in the assistant treasurer, treasurer and vice chairman slots. Halvorson began his business career in 1957 as a general contractor, the first major project of which was a tram on a mountain peak in the Sierra Nevada mountains. It was at this time that he purchased his first helicopter. Later he pioneered helicopter use in constructing a water pipeline across the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Visitor requests for helicopter rides led to rotorcraft sightseeing, which launched Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters, and an industry.
HAI Announces 2004 Lawrence D. Bell Memorial Award Recipient
Key Takeaways:
- Elling Halvorson, Chairman of Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters, is the recipient of the Helicopter Association International's (HAI) 2004 Lawrence D. Bell Award.
- The award recognizes Halvorson's 37-year association with HAI, including serving as its chairman twice and in various other leadership roles.
- Halvorson pioneered the use of helicopters in construction, notably for a Grand Canyon water pipeline, which ultimately led him to found Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters and launch the helicopter sightseeing industry.
See a mistake? Contact us.
