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October 27, 2011

Schiff Presses FAA to Regulate Helicopter Traffic over Residential Neighborhoods

Washington, DC –Today, Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) urged the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to set reasonable limits on helicopter flyovers of residential Los Angeles neighborhoods at a roundtable hosted by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Aviation Subcommittee.  The meeting was convened with representatives from the FAA, Helicopter Association International and the National Transportation Safety Board to examine helicopter flight operations in metropolitan areas, including Los Angeles County.  At the roundtable, Rep. Schiff expressed support for the Los Angeles Residential Helicopter Noise Relief Act (H.R. 2677), sponsored by Rep. Howard Berman (D-CA). 

“Los Angeles area residents living in Pasadena, the Hollywood Hills, West Hollywood and other areas are especially affected by intrusive, disruptive and often non-emergency related helicopter traffic above their neighborhoods,” Rep. Schiff said.  “The terrain of canyons around the Rose Bowl concentrates low-flying helicopter noise to high levels, and Hollywood Hills and West Hollywood residents frequently suffer from noise generated by celebrity news media that follow stars like Lindsey Lohan any time she leaves for a court appearance, which is frequently.”  

Under the legislation co-sponsored by Rep. Schiff, the FAA would be required to exercise its legal authority to set guidelines on flight paths and minimum altitudes for helicopter operators in residential areas in Los Angeles County within 12 months of being signed into law.  Exemptions would be provided for law enforcement, emergency responders and the U.S. military. 

“I strongly support the Los Angeles Residential Helicopter Noise Relief Act and urge swift action by the FAA to set minimum altitude regulation through FAA rule so that Los Angeles area residents can finally enjoy peace and quiet in our communities,” Rep. Schiff said.

 

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