Helicopter Tour Operators Fight Proposed National Park Restrictions

Certain parks could limit or eliminate air tours if proposed rules take effect.

Jonathan Welsh

Thursday, June 08, 2023 at 10:01 AM ET

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Helicopters tours could be eliminated from certain national parks under proposed new rules.. [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

Helicopter tour operators are opposing proposed flight restrictions at four U.S. national parks—Hawai’i Volcanoes, Haleakalā, Badlands, and Mount Rushmore—which would either eliminate or significantly cut air tours.
The Helicopter Association International (HAI) is urging public feedback by June 20, arguing these restrictions would prevent visitor enjoyment, harm local economies, and force some tour operations to close.
The National Park Service (NPS) and FAA state the purpose of these Air Tour Management Plans is to protect park resources, including natural sounds, visitor experiences, and wildlife.

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Helicopter tour operators are pushing back against flight restrictions proposed at four U.S. national parks that would affect or eliminate access to the parks by air tours.

The Helicopter Association International, or HAI, has called on its members and supporters to comment on the draft air traffic management plans published by the Nationals Park Service and the FAA, including “their reasons why the flights should continue.” The period for public feedback ends June 20.