Senators Move To Limit Airspace Access

Two U.S. senators have inserted language into the FAA Reauthorization bill that circumvents the normal channels governing airspace regulation for specific areas in their home states. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) added an amendment that allows the National Park Service to stop air tours over Crater Lake National Park without first preparing an air-tour management plan. Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), meanwhile, continues his quest to rearrange helicopter flight corridors over Long Island. His proposed amendment would require the FAA to implement a "North Shore Route" over Long Island Sound within 12 months. The route has been roundly criticized by the helicopter industry.