Rep. McCarthy Brings Local Concerns to the FAA
Aviation congestion and noise is a long-standing problem, especially in the New York metropolitan area. As a Long Islander, I am familiar with the problems caused by airplane noise and know how frustrating it can be. I have heard from numerous residents of the Fourth Congressional District about the inconvenience and aggravation that stems from airplane noise. This issue affects the quality of life of thousands of my constituents on a daily basis and I would like to take this opportunity to share with you some of the ways I am working to address this issue in Congress.
Recently, I took a tour of the New York Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) facility located in Westbury. The purpose of my visit was to learn more about air traffic control and to talk to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) about some of the concerns that have been brought to my attention by my constituents. I was grateful that the Administrator of the FAA, Randy Babbitt, joined me on the tour.
The TRACON facility in Westbury is truly unique, dealing with some of the busiest and complex airspace in the world. I was happy to have the opportunity to see the effects that various runway configurations and flight paths have on my district.
The patterns that traffic managers designate for controllers to use to bring the planes in for landings now, as compared to a number of years ago, are different. I understand that the amount of flights has increased and that there is a greater need to safely move planes in and out of airports, however, it seems that noise is becoming less and less of a consideration.
It is for this reason that following my visit to the New York TRACON facility, I sent a letter to the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) asking him numerous questions about noise reduction procedures. I look forward to hearing from the FAA in regards to these concerns and working with them to find a solution to this problem, while ensuring the safety and welfare of those who fly.
In the coming weeks, I will continue to keep you updated on my actions in regards to airplane noise reduction. I encourage you to utilize my office as a resource and stay in contact as it enables me to better represent the beliefs and values of our district.
