Flying into East Hampton, a Busy Airport Where the City Seeks To Limit Operations

The town of East Hampton wants to limit airport use, but charter operators and pilots have taken the town to court.

Wednesday, June 01, 2022 at 12:19 PM ET

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East Hampton Airport is is inviting, with a friendly, easygoing control tower staff, pleasant line personnel, and a bright, airy FBO. [Photo: Jonathan Welsh]

Key Takeaways:

East Hampton Airport (KHTO) is a popular destination for visitors to the Hamptons, experiencing high traffic from private aircraft, charter services, and helicopter shuttles.
Town officials are attempting to impose stricter controls on airport operations, including a plan to convert it to a private-use facility, to address escalating noise complaints from residents.
These efforts have faced significant legal challenges from aviation groups and businesses, resulting in court orders that have temporarily halted the town's plans and kept the airport open to the public.
Small piston aircraft pilots may be less impacted by proposed restrictions, as these aircraft are not considered "noisy" by the town's proposed rules.

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There is no sign of controversy on approach to East Hampton Airport (KHTO) on New York’s Long Island. Crossing Long Island Sound last week and descending over the picturesque forested area surrounding the airport, you could understand why the place attracts so many visitors.

The airport is inviting, with a friendly, easygoing control tower staff, pleasant line personnel, and a bright, airy FBO. During my recent midweek visit, a handful of small piston aircraft, turboprops, and a jet shared ramp space. I didn’t see any helicopters. On weekends, with summer approaching, traffic is sure to pick up. Pilots who use the airport regularly have described a hive-like atmosphere on summer weekends.