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Trying to See Both Sides in East Hampton

While the town and other interest groups battle in court, others push for the permanent shutdown of East Hampton Airport.

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

  • East Hampton Airport (KHTO/KJPX) is facing significant local opposition due to noise pollution, particularly from low-flying helicopters and jets, which has caused widespread community annoyance.
  • Resident groups are actively campaigning for the airport's permanent closure or drastic operational restrictions, citing environmental concerns and limited economic benefit to the community.
  • The airport's future is currently being contested in court, with the Town of East Hampton aiming to convert it to a private-use facility to limit traffic, while some residents and the author suggest opportunities for compromise to keep it open with downsized operations.
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I was surprised recently when a pilot friend who used to own a house near the East Hampton Airport (KHTO) on New York’s Long Island mentioned how annoying the buzz of air traffic in the area could be, particularly low-flying helicopters.

Soon, however, I began thinking about how many times I cursed under my breath as loud choppers passed overhead when I worked in downtown Manhattan. I have a particular dislike for models with ducted-fan-style tail rotors, sometimes called fenestrons, that make a shrieking sound which, over the city’s din, adds insult to injury.

Jonathan Welsh

Jonathan Welsh is Lead Editor of Aviation Consumer and a private pilot who worked as a reporter, editor and columnist with the Wall Street Journal for 21 years, mostly covering the auto industry. His passion for aviation began in childhood with balsa-wood gliders his aunt would buy for him at the corner store. Follow Jonathan on Twitter @JonathanWelsh4

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