Reducing Helicopter Noise in the District of Columbia Act
Source: Congress.gov ·
392 words in original text
What This Bill Does
This bill tells the Secretary of Transportation to order the Federal Aviation Administration to change its rules. The new rules would require all helicopters and rotorcraft (aircraft with rotating blades) flying in Washington, D.C. to fly at the highest altitude that the Federal Aviation Administration allows in that area.
Who It Affects
- The Secretary of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration
- All helicopter and rotorcraft operators in Washington, D.C.
- The public in Washington, D.C.
Key Provisions
- The Secretary of Transportation, working through the Federal Aviation Administration, must change regulations within 180 days after the law passes to require all helicopters and rotorcraft in Washington, D.C. to fly at the maximum permitted altitude. (Sec. 2(a))
- The new rules cannot apply when a helicopter must fly lower to safely operate or to avoid colliding with other aircraft. (Sec. 2(b)(1))
- The new rules cannot apply when transporting the President or Vice President. (Sec. 2(b)(2))
- The new rules cannot apply when a medical helicopter needs to fly lower to protect a patient's health. (Sec. 2(b)(3))
- The new rules cannot apply during takeoff or landing. (Sec. 2(b)(4))
- The new rules cannot apply during active law enforcement or rescue operations. (Sec. 2(b)(5))
What Changes
Federal regulations will require helicopters and rotorcraft to fly at maximum permitted altitudes in Washington, D.C., except in specific safety, medical, security and operational situations listed above.
Important Definitions
None defined in bill text.
Effective Date
Within 180 days after the bill becomes law.
Important: This plain English summary was generated by AI and is provided for informational purposes only.
It is not legal advice. Always consult the official bill text on Congress.gov
or a qualified attorney for legal matters.