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THE
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK

OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS

CITY HALL

NEW YORK,
NY 10007

http://council.nyc.gov

(212) 788-7116

**For Immediate Release**                                                                                                              

August 10, 2009

Contact: Andrew Doba
(212) 788-7120 or (646) 263-1877
Release # 080-2009

Council Announces
Emergency Oversight Hearing of Hudson River
Air Traffic

City Hall – Speaker Christine C. Quinn, together
with Transportation Committee Chair John Liu and Council Member Gale Brewer,
announced today that the Council will hold an oversight hearing in the wake of
the mid-air collision over the Hudson River.

The hearing will be held on August 25, 2009, before the Transportation
Committee. 

“For too long, the FAA has taken a wait and see approach when it
comes to air traffic over the Hudson,”
said Speaker Christine C. Quinn. 
“Well, we have waited. And now we have seen the senseless devastation
that the lack of regulation has had for the families.  Regardless of what
the investigation uncovers, the time has come for the FAA to reassess their
regulatory practices for the Hudson River corridor. 
And it’s time for the City to review and analyze our policies when it
comes to air traffic over our neighborhoods.”

“West Side Manhattan residents have reported as many as 25
helicopters in 30 minutes flying over their homes.  These flights are loud, low
and dangerous, hovering over tall residential buildings, Central
Park, and playgrounds,” said Councilmember Brewer. “On Saturday, August 8, I heard
about the crash from Notify NYC and was horrified. Now nine people are dead,
and we are left only with our extreme sadness and condolence to the families. Before
this happens again, these tourism helicopter flights over Manhattan should be banned.  I look forward
to discussing this and all other options at the oversight hearing later this
month.”

“This tragedy highlights the need not only for an emergency
contingency plan, but a better system of coordination between City and federal
authorities,” said Transportation
Committee Chair John Liu.  “What happened this weekend is not
the only time we have seen a serious mishap concerning small aircrafts and
helicopters over the rivers surrounding the City. The proximity of these
accidents to residents and people on the ground is far too close for comfort. 
Our oversight hearing has been convened to gain a better understanding of
procedures in place – if any – and what new procedures and
protocols are necessary to save lives and limbs.”

A list of some of the attendees will be available in the days before
the hearing. 

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