Photo credit: Matthis Volquardsen
by Arline L. Bronzaft, Ph.D., Board of Directors, GrowNYC, Co-founder, The Quiet Coalition, and Honorary Chair, Quiet American Skies
Rep. Jerrold Nadler was joined by Representatives Dan Goldman, Adriano Espaillat, Yvette Clarke, Nydia Velazquez, Jamaal Bowman and Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez in his letter to Gov. Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams directing them to end non-essential helicopter flights from several New York City heliports. They noted that over the past several years, non-essential flights have increased, bringing increased noise and other environmental hardships to many New York residents.
Although it is acknowledged in the article that federal action can be taken to reduce non-essential helicopter flights, the letter explains that the state and city can take action as well. Apparently, Gov. Hochul and Mayor Adams can “end concession contracts at these heliports.”
Melissa Elstein, Board Chair and Secretary of Stop the Chop NY/NJ, thanked the representatives for their action. Additionally, the press release goes on to say that tourist helicopters “are a completely unnecessary way for tourists to view our beautiful city.” Furthermore, trips to beaches, airports and vacation spots can be done by “friendlier” modes of transportation. The press release underscores the authority of the state and city to take action by informing readers that former Mayor Rudy Giuliani closed a heliport and former Mayor Bill De Blasio reduced tourist flights from a Downtown Manhattan heliport.
We all await the response to this letter.
