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Rep. Maloney Reacts to New FAA Rules on East River Flights |
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New York, NY – Today, Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney (D-Manhattan, Queens) reacted to the FAA’s announcement that fixed-wing aircraft will be banned from flying over the East River unless they are “authorized and controlled” by air traffic control. The FAA made the announcement late Friday afternoon in response to the recent plane crash on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, which Maloney represents in Congress.
FAA officials said that the new rule would likely remain in place while the Agency investigates Wednesday’s tragedy, although the rules could be strengthened, reduced or made permanent at any time. The FAA plans to make a final decision on the efficacy of the new rules once its investigation is completed. “This is a sensible measure that I hope the FAA will make permanent and expanded to include helicopters,” said Rep. Maloney. “Aircraft need to be under the supervision of air traffic control when navigating the dangerous and crowded East River corridor. Unsupervised, low-flying planes and high-rise buildings do not mix.” “I’m sure that East Siders will be relieved that the FAA is taking action to make our community safer. Unfortunately, there have also been a number of helicopter crashes in the area in recent years and these new rules do not yet govern helicopter flights. I hope the FAA will recognize the importance of addressing these equally serious concerns as it determines the ultimate scope of its new policy.” ### |
