The event began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in front of the facility where Airbus dedicated an AS350 helicopter mounted atop a large stanchion to be the outward reflection to the local community of what the facility manufactures. The paint scheme, which includes the U.S. flag, the Mississippi state flag, and “In God We Trust,” was developed through a design contest that included the plant’s employees.
“Today, 300 employees work in this facility, many of whom are military veterans. I know that they really, really take pride in supporting national security as well as essential workers in air ambulance, firefighters, law enforcement, and search and rescue teams,” said Romain Trapp, Airbus Helicopters Inc. president and head of Airbus Helicopters-North America.
Following the aircraft dedication, hundreds of employees and media were taken on a celebratory timeline journey that included participation from heavy hitters such as the president of Airbus Helicopters-North America, two Mississippi state governors (current and past), a U.S. senator, and U.S. Army generals.
Immediately following the dignitary remarks and presentation, all attendees were asked to step outside onto the flight line to enjoy a helicopter aerobatics show put on by the world-renowned Red Bull helicopter piloted by Scott Urschel of Pylon Aviation.
Apropos of Mississippi cuisine, following the helicopter aerobatic presentation, the crowd was treated to a lunch of classic southern favorites that included smoked pork, green beans, and mac and cheese, and was afforded the opportunity to meet the delegation of dignitaries.
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker reflected, “Our purpose is to honor history. To look at 20 years of success in creating jobs and in defending our country, both at home and abroad. But it’s also about looking forward to the next decade, the next 20 years.
“Ladies and gentlemen, our friends from Airbus, 20 years ago, with the leadership of so many people in this room and people who are not able to be with us, we performed something worthy to be remembered.”
Team Red Bull entertains the crowd with a helicopter aerobatics presentation.
60 Sep/Oct 2023
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