Bob Menendez: “Last month, an air tourism helicopter crashed into the Hudson River near Jersey City killing six people, including three…”

“Last month, an air tourism helicopter crashed into the Hudson River near Jersey City killing six people, including three young children. This tragedy is yet another example of the threat that nonessential helicopters pose to public safety, especially in the congested airspace over New Jersey and New York. Since 1983, there have been at least 30 helicopter crashes in our region, resulting in at least 31 fatalities. We also continue to hear from countless New Jersey residents whose lives are upended by the constant, incessant noise of helicopters traveling at low altitudes over our neighborhoods. Since taking office, we have consistently worked to address these challenges, from the noise and nuisance they cause to the safety risks that have been well documented. In the 118th Congress, we introduced two pieces of legislation and directly engaged with the FAA to address these issues, hosting a workshop in Jersey City with stakeholders and local leaders, but this crash is a clarion call to every level of government that further urgent action is needed. That is why, along with my colleagues from New Jersey and New York, I introduced the Improving Helicopter Safety Act, which bans all nonessential helicopter traffic within a 20-mile radius of the Statue of Liberty. It is clear that the helicopter industry is not a good actor or one willing to proactively take measures to protect our communities.…”