June 26, 2023
Advocacy efforts by NBAA and other stakeholders helped stop a noise tax proposal for certain helicopter and seaplane operations from becoming law in New York.
NBAA, along with other national and regional associations, strongly opposed NY state Senate Bill 7216, which would have established a tax on noise from non-essential helicopter and seaplane flights in cities with a population of 1 million or more. Despite efforts, the bill passed in the state Senate earlier this month.
The Assembly then closed as planned in early June without passing the companion bill, A7638. However, in an unusual move, the Assembly re-opened for an additional session June 20-21, causing concern among aviation advocates that A7638 might be a priority.
But that session then closed without any traction on the proposed legislation.
“Although our advocacy was effective in this case, and the new noise tax bill will not become law at this time, helicopter and seaplane operations in the New York-metro area will continue to face scrutiny in the years ahead,” said Brittany Davies, NBAA’s Northeast regional director. “NBAA, our partner associations and most importantly local operators need to be on alert for new challenges to safe use of the airspace in order to protect the future of New York’s strong aviation industry.”
In New York, general aviation supports a workforce of 43,200 individuals and generates over $8.6 billion in total economic output.
NBAA, along with the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, the Eastern Region Helicopter Council, the Experimental Aircraft Association, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, Helicopter Association International, the National Air Transportation Association and the New York Aviation Management Association, will continue advocacy for industry and collaborative work with government leaders and regulatory bodies to ensure safe and sustainable flight operations.
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.