VAI Presents Pierre duPont with Unique Recognition
Congratulations to Pierre (Bayard) duPont on his 25 years of excellence in flying aircraft into VAI VERTICON (formerly HAI HELI-EXPO).
VAI Safety Director Zac Noble presented a first-of-its-kind award to Enstrom’s Senior Technical Fellow in recognition of his dedication to vertical aviation and adherence to the highest operational safety standards.
At a VERTICON pilot briefing event, organizers asked everyone flying in how many times they’d flown aircraft into VERTICON or HELI-EXPO. A few pilots raised their hands, acknowledging they had made the landing more than five times, but duPont was the only pilot to have done so more than ten times. When VAI’s Zac Noble learned duPont had made the trip a monumental 25 times, he knew his organization needed to highlight this achievement.
Enstrom’s SVP of Regulatory Affairs and Global Relations Todd Tetzlaff said he’s proud to have duPont, who boasts a 50-year history and love for rotorcraft, flying in an Enstrom.
“Bayard can fix and fly almost anything, from small taildraggers, high performance homebuilts, seaplanes, and helicopters,” Tetzlaff said. “The list and the stories associated with that list are amazing. For him to not only choose Enstrom helicopters, but be passionate about them, speaks volumes for the quality of the product. Whether you’re a customer, old friend, or are just curious about helicopters, Bayard is always willing to share his experience and wisdom with you.”
This is not the first prestigious lifetime achievement award duPont has received. In 2024, the FAA presented him with the Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award in recognition of his five decades in the aviation maintenance field.
About Enstrom Helicopter
From Rudy Enstrom’s early designs in 1943 to initial testing in a Michigan Quarry in 1957 to aircraft operating on six continents, Enstrom Helicopter Corporation has maintained a reputation for safety, value and performance. Based in Menominee, Michigan and proudly made in the United States, Enstrom has a rich history for design innovation. The goal is to provide helicopters to the customer’s exact specification and deliver support and maintenance worldwide.