Environmentalists Say Reducing GA Traffic Would Cut Noise

Noise over the Grand Canyon is once again an issue for the FAA, as it opens yet another comment period on an upcoming environmental impact statement covering the canyon.

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association says it's important for pilots to make their voices heard as part of the comment period, as some environmental groups are already talking about how reducing general aviation flights over the Grand Canyon would go a long way toward restoring the natural peace and quiet there.

"The FAA and NPS will offer three 'public participation opportunities' next week, and it's important that GA pilots make their voices heard," said Heidi Williams, AOPA director of air traffic services. "Some in the environmental community are already making a lot of noise about how restricting general aviation flights would allegedly help restore quiet."

AOPA doesn't agree, of course; the group notes private aircraft only account for less than three percent of all air traffic over the Grand Canyon. What's more, all GA traffic is limited to flying in certain corridors above the national park that surrounds the canyon.

The public meetings begin Tuesday... and are being held in Phoenix and Flagstaff, AZ and Las Vegas, NV. Locations and times are available at the FMI link.

FMI: www.aopa.org