Helicopters in the Hamptons

Jim Eykyn, Publisher; Bryan L. Obenchain, Editor
We should all have such troubles.


Some residents of New York’s Hamptons are angry that some of their neighbors have begun arriving at their posh estates via helicopter. Complaining residents say the loud noise from the arriving and departing helicopters is affecting the quality of life in the area.


One complainant said he first noticed the increase in chopper traffic while he was sitting in his hot tub.


Oh, poor baby. We hope the helicopter noise didn’t startle him and make him spill some of his expensive champagne or caviar on himself.


Please.


At a time when the average person is concerned about skyrocketing fuel prices and higher food prices, these uppity folks have the audacity to complain about something so meaningless?


Wait, it gets worse. Now Congress may get involved. New York Sen. Charles Schumer wants the Federal Aviation Administration to begin regulating the chopper flights. Currently, filing a flight plan is voluntary. Schumer helped broker an agreement that established new routes and altitude standards to help keep the noise down. He and Rep. Timothy Bishop have said if the voluntary changes don’t help, they’ll consider legislation requiring the FAA to take action.


Well, let’s hope it doesn’t come to that. We’d hate to have over-paid lawmakers wasting their time – and our tax money – trying to decide how best to keep the noise down for the rich residents of the Hamptons. Perhaps instead of wasting taxpayer resources and money, those living in the Hamptons could spend some of their own money on a little extra soundproofing for their mansions and put a roof over their hot tubs.