Aviation Groups Push Back on Proposal Targeting New York Helicopter Operations

The New York’s City Council Committee on Economic Development included proposals in its agenda to implement a noise tax on 'non-essential' helicopter and seaplane operations.

Amelia Walsh

Monday, April 22, 2024 at 04:12 PM ET

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Aviation advocacy groups including NBAA and AOPA spoke out against proposed restrictions against "non-essential" helicopter operations in New York City, arguing the measures would harm the economy. [Credit: Bell Helicopter]

Key Takeaways:

New York City Council is proposing new laws to restrict "nonessential" helicopter and seaplane operations, including a noise tax, a ban on charter and tourist flights, and limiting city heliports to electric rotorcraft.
Aviation organizations, such as NBAA and AOPA, are strongly opposing these proposals, arguing they would severely damage New York City's economy by impacting jobs and overall economic output.
Opponents also contend that the proposed noise-based restrictions may violate federal regulations, specifically the Airport Noise and Capacity Act (ANCA), which gives the FAA sole authority over aeronautical activity regulation.

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Several aviation organizations have rallied against proposed New York City laws targeting “nonessential” helicopter operations at city-owned heliports.

The New York City Council’s Committee on Economic Development included proposals in its agenda to implement a noise tax on “nonessential” helicopter and seaplane operations, urge the FAA to ban charter and tourist flights, and limit city heliport operations to electric-powered rotorcraft only.