Bill > S07381

This bill prohibits municipal corporations from allowing publicly owned land to be used for helicopter transportation primarily focused on sightseeing tours or production activities over New York City. Specifically, the legislation modifies the Hudson River Park Act to define and restrict "prohibited flight operations," while still preserving exceptions for critical transportation uses such as construction support, public safety (law enforcement, emergency response, medical services), research, and flights complying with federal aviation regulations. The bill creates clear definitions for "permitted transportation use" and "prohibited flight operations" and requires the Hudson River Park trust to take steps to prevent unauthorized helicopter operations, including blocking access to heliports for operators conducting prohibited flights. The legislation will take effect 30 days after becoming law, with a provision that allows existing leases, permits, or licenses to continue under their current terms until expiration, but only if the extension is solely at the discretion of the current user. This bill aims to reduce helicopter traffic over New York City, particularly for tourism and commercial media production purposes, while maintaining essential transportation and emergency services.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7381