Bill > SB2889

This bill, known as the "Helicopter Tour Safety and Community Protection Act of 2026," aims to regulate commercial helicopter tours over sensitive areas in Hawaii to protect natural soundscapes, wildlife, and residents' quality of life. The Department of Transportation (DOT) will designate these "sensitive areas" through a public process, considering factors like noise complaints, cultural significance, endangered species, and visitor experiences. Once designated, commercial helicopter tours will face restrictions, including minimum flight altitudes, adherence to approved routes that minimize overflights of residential areas and wildlife habitats, and limitations on operating hours and days, with specific prohibitions on Sundays, state holidays, and during cultural events. The DOT will also establish limits on the number of permits issued, daily tours, and operating businesses per sensitive area, and may create "flight-free zones" within these areas. Enforcement will be managed through a permit system, real-time flight tracking, noise monitoring, and a dedicated hotline for anonymous complaints, with violations potentially leading to civil penalties of up to $10,000 per offense and permit suspension or revocation. The DOT is required to submit an annual report to the Legislature detailing sensitive area designations, permit activity, violations, and complaint resolutions. These regulations will not apply to emergency services, law enforcement, military, or firefighting operations.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2889&year=2026