US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

US Federal House Bill HB5049

Introduced

8/26/25

Refer

8/26/25

Refer

8/27/25

Caption

Protecting Communities from Helicopter Noise Act

Impact

The proposed study will investigate critical aspects, such as the volume and frequency of helicopter flights, adherence to existing voluntary agreements, and the environmental impacts associated with high levels of helicopter traffic. The outcome of this study will be pivotal as it could lead to policy recommendations aimed at reducing helicopter noise, which residents have identified as a significant quality-of-life issue. Furthermore, it may prompt the establishment of new policies or regulations enhancing the management of airspace around the Statue of Liberty.

Summary

House Bill 5049, titled the 'Protecting Communities from Helicopter Noise Act', mandates the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct a thorough study regarding helicopter operations within a 20-mile radius of the Statue of Liberty National Monument. This legislation addresses growing concerns about helicopter noise and its impact on local communities, particularly in urban areas where the frequency of helicopter traffic is high. The bill emphasizes the need to analyze various factors including noise levels, air traffic safety, and potential effects on real estate and recreational areas in proximity to the monument.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB5049 may involve differing opinions on how best to manage helicopter traffic in urban environments. Proponents of the bill argue that the study is a necessary step to balance the needs of local communities against the operations of the aviation industry. They assert that effective regulation can mitigate noise pollution and improve the overall safety and health of residents. On the other hand, opponents might contend that increased regulation could limit legitimate aviation activities, particularly those deemed essential, potentially leading to economic implications for the helicopter services operating in the area.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB5939

USMC Helicopter Support in Vietnam Congressional Gold Medal Act

US HB3196

Improving Helicopter Safety Act of 2025

US A05891

Establishes a tax on noise from non-essential helicopter and seaplane flights in cities with a population of one million or more.

US S01140

Establishes a tax on noise from non-essential helicopter and seaplane flights in cities with a population of one million or more.

US HB8226

Helicopter Safety Parity Act of 2026

US S2961

Prohibits tourist helicopter operations in New Jersey.

US A3321

Prohibits tourist helicopter operations in New Jersey.

US SR519

A resolution recognizing the achievements and contributions of the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter to the national defense of the United States and its allies and honoring the dedication, service, and sacrifice of the United States Army aviators, maintainers, and support personnel who operate and sustain the Apache.

US HB4356

Wild Horse and Burro Protection Act of 2025

US HB897

Aviation-Impacted Communities ActThis bill increases access to noise mitigation measures for aviation-impacted communities. Under the bill, an aviation-impacted community is a community that is located not more than one mile from any point at which a commercial or cargo jet route is 3,000 feet or less above ground level.The bill expands noise mitigation program funding under the Airport Improvement Program to include aviation-impacted communities that are not currently within the 65 day-night average sound level (DNL) standard.The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) must conduct outreach to aviation-impacted communities to inform them of the opportunity to be a designated community. A designated community must form a community board to provide information to airport operators and the FAA concerning aviation impacts (e.g., aircraft noise).A community board may petition the FAA to conduct a community assessment and, based on the assessment, the FAA must devise an action plan that alleviates or addresses the community’s concerns.In addition, the FAA must enter into an agreement with the National Academy of Sciences to conduct a study and provide the FAA with a framework and diagnostic tool for conducting community assessments.The FAA must provide grants for necessary noise mitigation in a designated community for residences, hospitals, nursing homes, adult or child day care centers, schools, and places of worship. Further, the FAA and airport operators must provide (1) noise mitigation grants for communities subject to significant frequency of overhead flights, and (2) noise mitigation for residences impacted by significant nighttime aircraft noise.