NYS Senate approves legislation co-sponsored by Addabbo to address the increase of helicopters flying over local communities

Legislation (S.7493-A) co-sponsored by New York State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. aimed at addressing unreasonable disruptions caused by helicopters, was approved by the State Senate.

“I’m hopeful that if this bill ever becomes law that my constituents will get some much-needed relief from the growing helicopter traffic in their communities,” Addabbo said. “As I previously stated, the federal government, namely the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), handles most of the responsibility to regulate aircraft so it’s encouraging that this Senate action will address unreasonable and disruptive helicopter traffic while also dealing with the environmental threat it poses.”

In 2020, helicopter complaints more than doubled in New York City, and in the first nine months of 2021, the city received 17,733 complaints regarding helicopter noise. Working from home, enjoying outdoor activities, or creating a quiet environment for young children to nap, are all difficult, if not impossible, tasks due to high-decibel noise and vibrations caused by non-essential helicopter use.

“These helicopters not only contribute to noise pollution, but they also add to air pollution through more carbon emissions. One helicopter produces 43 times more carbon dioxide per hour than an average car and can have serious health effects on residents,” Addabbo explained.

The bill creates a right of action against any person who creates an unreasonable level of sustained noise at ground level from a helicopter. Additionally, it bans non-essential heliport use and restricts helicopter use through the Hudson River Park.

After passing the Senate, the bill was sent to the Assembly for consideration.