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We are convinced that the Defense Department should, in cooperation with the commercial interests, carefully select the various helicopter designs to be subjected to the proposed operations and that the newest type military helicopters should certainly be included.  While hours of utilization per day may well be more important to a certificated helicopter operator than to the military services, nevertheless, the ultimate objective for both is reliability.  Therefore, in order to derive full advantage from the operations conducted by the Department of Defense, it is evident that the presently certificated helicopter operators whose survival depends in considerable degree on high utilization of equipment should conduct experiments similar to those that the Department of Defense may think it advisable to initiate itself in adopting the foregoing program.  The incentive driving these commercial operators to do the most effective job possible cannot be exaggerated.  

At this point it is worth re-emphasizing that the Civil Aeronautics Board has certificated three companies whose sole job it is to concentrate exclusively on the operation and development of the helicopter transport.  Already these companies have, with the support and encouragement of the Civil Aeronautics Board, made may invaluable developmental contributions.  Their experience points up with increasing force the fact that, generally, the precedents established in other transportation fields have little or no bearing on the helicopter.  This is truly a new business and must be so approached.  IT would be well-nigh criminal to handicap the development of this very versatile new equipment by treating it in any other way.

As a matter of possible interest to this gathering, we have brought along several charts pointing up in certain specified areas what has been accomplished in New York Airways from the point of view of maintenance and overhaul during the first 15 months of our operational existence.  They are available here for your inspection, and Mr. Gallagher, our Operations Manager, is here to answer any questions you may have.  We know, as a matter of fact, that these accomplishments with the S-55 have already had beneficial effect on future designs.  We also know, as a matter of fact, that these accomplishments have greatly benefited the armed services who are using this equipment so broadly in Korea, in Europe, indeed all over.  We are convinced that thi demonstrates beyond any reasonable doubt the utility of a developmental program such as we are promoting.  It demonstrates conclusively the need and the advantages.  
  
We in New York Airways are making every effort to conduct our business in as conservative and sound a manner as possible.  We have received tremendous assistance from the fixed-wing industry.  We are treating the helicopter as a mature instrument of business, while at the same time, recognizing the vital need for drastic improvement.  We are promoting public acceptance both on the ground and in the air to the best of our ability.  In fact, to us, the improvement of the machine without a corresponding advance in public acceptance is as totally inconceivable as the reverse.  WE are constantly consulting with civic leaders throughout our area, including businessmen, housewives, Chamber of Commerce representatives, politicians, and, generally, the man in the street -- all in addition 

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