Bill > S4427

This bill seeks to prohibit tourist helicopter operations at all aviation facilities licensed by the State of New Jersey, including airports, heliports, and helistops. The bill defines a "tourist helicopter" as a helicopter used for sightseeing tours in areas like the Hudson River, Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. The primary motivation is to eliminate noise, safety hazards, and other negative impacts on the quality of life for New Jersey residents. The prohibition does not apply to helicopters owned or operated by federal, military, or state authorities, nor does it restrict helicopters providing emergency medical transportation. The bill provides clear definitions for key terms such as "airport" (a designated area licensed for aircraft landing and takeoff), "helicopter" (a rotary wing aircraft using engine-driven vertical rotors), "heliport" (a dedicated area for helicopter takeoff and landing), and "helistop" (an area for helicopter landing that is not exclusively used for that purpose). The legislation would take effect immediately upon enactment, giving the Commissioner of Transportation the authority to implement the tourist helicopter ban across the state.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4427