July 2022: Special MCQSC Update: New Helicopter Noise Complaint System for the DC Region
U.S. Rep. (D-VA8) on Friday held a press conference with Jeffery Smith, Vice President of Operations for the Eastern Region Helicopter Council (ERHC), and John Shea of the Helicopter Association International (HAI) to announce a pilot program for a new helicopter noise complaint system for the National Capital Region, according to a June 27 press release issued by the congressman.
A 2021 report by the General Accounting Office (GAO) originally requested by Beyer and other members of the [Quiet Skies] Caucus, [including MD Representative Jamie Raskin], recommended that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) “develop a mechanism to exchange helicopter noise information with operators in the D.C. area.” The just-announced pilot program was developed with this recommendation in mind, and will be evaluated by FAA for potential permanent adoption after a 60-day trial run.
Beyer said:
“For years my constituents have steadily complained of disruptive helicopter noise in the National Capital Region, and I have worked hard with colleagues and regional partners to address those concerns and reduce this noise. The just-announced helicopter noise complaint system meets a key recommendation made by the GAO report my colleagues and I requested: that the FAA develop a mechanism to track helicopter noise complaints in the Washington, D.C. area.
“It is important to note that this system is a pilot program, and its success depends on our community. Anyone with a helicopter noise complaint can submit it online, by phone at 877-209-3200, or via mobile app. Providing as much information as possible when leaving a complaint is crucial – details will help to review and process the complaint.
“I am hopeful that this pilot program will prove to be a strong first step in carrying out recommendations developed with community input to reduce helicopter noise in Northern Virginia and across our region, and I will continue to work with colleagues and regional leaders and agencies to reduce helicopter noise in our skies.”