Politics & Government

Helicopter Noise Debate Hovers Over L.A. County

Government officials and residents want tighter regulations, while FAA officials and pilots want more investigation into the problem and who is responsible.

Written By Matthew Sanderson and posted by Nathan McIntire

Concerns continue rising with homeowners, residents and county, state and federal officials to regulate helicopter noise levels in L.A. County, while the Federal Aviation Administration officials and pilots say more time is needed to determine the extent of the problem, according to the Los Angeles Times.

A recent public hearing in Griffith Park attended by more than 150 people suggested voluntary regulations be imposed on helicopter pilots and flight paths. The meeting coincided with a May 31 report from the FAA, which suggests a collaborative, voluntary approach to address the issue is needed rather than government legislation. Some officials question why helicopters must hover 300 to 400 feet above the ground.

The FAA did state they were willing to consider some regulations, such as flight paths, altitude restrictions and hovering time limitations.

Helicopters from the Foothill Air Support Team (FAST) often fly over Monrovia to assist local police in pursuits and other investigations. A tactical flight officer from the Monrovia Police Department is responsible for assessing the need for air support, according to the FAST website.

On Monday prior to the public hearing, Rep. Henry A. Waxman called on the FAA to take concrete action to alleviate community concerns about helicopter traffic.

"Helicopter noise in L.A. is a very serious problem," Waxman said in a statement. "For years, my constituents have complained of low flying, thunderous helicopter traffic over their homes at all hours, day and night."

Waxman said in the next few months, the FAA needs to set firm milestones for additional action. 

"It must take concrete steps that lead to substantial and measureable noise reduction," Waxman said. "And if these steps fail to produce results, or the FAA fails to act, Congress must act.”

Find out what's happening in Monroviawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The Los Angeles Helicopter Noise Initiative was initiated in response to a May 2012 letter sent by five members of the Los Angeles delegation. In addition, Waxman cosponsored H.R. 456, the Los Angeles Residential Helicopter Noise Relief Act, which would require the FAA to prescribe regulations that reduce helicopter noise pollution in residential areas, increase safety, and minimize scheduled commercial aircraft delays in L.A. County. 

What are your thoughts?


Find out what's happening in Monroviawith free, real-time updates from Patch.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here