Crime & Safety
Federal Bill Targets L.A. Helicopter Noise
Military and police helicopters would be exempt under the law introduced by a Congressman who represents the San Fernando Valley.
Democratic Rep. Howard L. Berman of Valley Village introduced the Los Angles Residential Helicopter Nosie Relief Act Thursday in Congress.
It would require the Federal Aviation Administration to create routes and minimum altitudes in residential neighborhoods in Los Angeles County.
Exemptions would be allowed for emergency responders and the military.
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Still unclear is how "residential neighborhoods" would be defined.
Berman said that chopper traffic has reached a "ridiculous point," pointing to recent helicopter charters to view a closed section of the 405 freeway.
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But the noise and privacy issues surrounding helicopters have been building for years.
The Los Angeles Times says the bill could face some trouble in the House, controlled by Republicans who don't like regulation.
They fought Berman's efforts earlier this year to set curfews at Burbank and Van Nuys airports.
Currently the FAA does not set minimum altitudes for helicopters.
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