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Safe and Quiet Skies: New Rules for Commercial Air Tours

This act introduces new regulations for commercial air tours, aiming to enhance safety and reduce noise. Citizens may experience less noise near sensitive areas and improved flight safety. Local and tribal authorities gain more control over air tour operations in their jurisdictions.
Key points
Prohibition of air tours within half a mile of military installations, national cemeteries, wilderness areas, national parks, and wildlife refuges.
Mandatory use of Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) Out equipment for the entire duration of commercial air tours, improving aircraft tracking.
Implementation of a 'sterile cockpit' rule for air tours, requiring pilots to focus solely on safe aircraft operation during critical flight phases.
Minimum altitude for air tours set at 1,500 feet, with exceptions for takeoff, landing, and unforeseen safety circumstances.
Flights over occupied areas are only permitted with noise suppression technology reducing noise to 55 dbA or lower.
State, local, and tribal authorities are empowered to impose additional restrictions on air tours, including bans, time limits, routes, and noise requirements.
All commercial air tours must operate under stricter safety regulations (Part 135 of aviation regulations) instead of less stringent ones (Part 91).
Penalties for violations are established, including the revocation of air tour certifications or permits.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_1071
Sponsor: Rep. Case, Ed [D-HI-1]
Process start date: 2023-02-17
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Safe and Quiet Skies Act of 2023

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_HR_1071.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-02-17.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Prohibition of air tours within half a mile of military installations, national cemeteries, wilderness areas, national parks, and wildlife refuges.
  • Mandatory use of Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) Out equipment for the entire duration of commercial air tours, improving aircraft tracking.
  • Implementation of a 'sterile cockpit' rule for air tours, requiring pilots to focus solely on safe aircraft operation during critical flight phases.
  • Minimum altitude for air tours set at 1,500 feet, with exceptions for takeoff, landing, and unforeseen safety circumstances.
  • Flights over occupied areas are only permitted with noise suppression technology reducing noise to 55 dbA or lower.
  • State, local, and tribal authorities are empowered to impose additional restrictions on air tours, including bans, time limits, routes, and noise requirements.
  • All commercial air tours must operate under stricter safety regulations (Part 135 of aviation regulations) instead of less stringent ones (Part 91).
  • Penalties for violations are established, including the revocation of air tour certifications or permits.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Case, Ed [D-HI-1].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Aviation.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-24.

CATEGORIES

Transport Environment Courts and Law