Advertisement
🔥FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE🔥World Helicopter Day Brings Big Announcements and Big Rotorcraft to Norman on Sunday, August 17th
The OU School of Aviation and Semper Fly Helicopters to host free community event with Bell, Vertical Aviation International, military helicopters, and public flights at Max Westheimer Airport
Norman, OK — August 14, 2025 — The University of Oklahoma School of Aviation and Semper Fly Helicopters will co-host World Helicopter Day on Sunday, August 17th, 2025, at Max Westheimer Airport, showcasing an unprecedented lineup of helicopters and major industry announcements from Bell.
From the sleek Bell 505 and 206, to the powerful Bell 407 and legendary Huey, to military giants like the Chinook and Blackhawk, visitors will get up close to aircraft that define missions around the world. Also on display will be the Air Evac EC130, a helicopter used in critical medical transport, alongside civilian training helicopters like the Guimbal Cabri G2, giving the public a rare opportunity to see — and in some cases fly — these machines.
“This year, World Helicopter Day is about more than celebrating rotorcraft—it’s about the future of helicopter training and operations right here in Oklahoma,” said Brandi Rector, CEO & President of Semper Fly Helicopters. “With Bell making major announcements at this event and Vertical Aviation International joining us, we’re showcasing not just the helicopters, but the industry leaders shaping the future of aviation.”
Event Highlights
• Major Bell industry announcements — shaping the future of helicopter training in Oklahoma
• National industry presence with Vertical Aviation International in attendance
• Static displays: Bell 505, Bell 206, Bell 407, Bell Huey, Boeing CH-47 Chinook, Sikorsky UH-60 Blackhawk, Air Evac EC130, Guimbal Cabri G2, and more
• $50 discovery flights (limited availability; waiver required)
• Simulator demonstrations with certified instructors
• Food trucks, family activities, and career information
Event Details
• When: Sunday, August 17th, 2025, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Where: Max Westheimer Airport, Norman, Oklahoma
• Admission: Free; helicopter rides available for purchase (weather permitting)
Speakers will include leaders from Bell, Vertical Aviation International, the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission, the OU School of Aviation, and U.S. Congressman Tom Cole. Media will have exclusive photo and interview opportunities with aircraft, pilots, and key decision-makers.
Media Contact:
Semper Fly Helicopters
[email protected] | (580) 915-9080
⸻
About The University of Oklahoma School of Aviation
The OU School of Aviation is one of the nation’s premier collegiate aviation programs, offering professional pilot, aviation management, and air traffic control degrees, with strong industry and military partnerships.
About Semper Fly Helicopters
Semper Fly Helicopters is a veteran-led helicopter flight school based at Max Westheimer Airport in Norman, Oklahoma, providing Part 141 and Part 61 training, discovery flights, and career pathways in partnership with academic institutions and industry leaders like Bell.
Advertisement
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Max Westheimer Airfield, Norman, Oklahoma, United States
