Company Hopes To Offer Aerial Views For The Orlando Eye

The Orange County, FL Commission has tabled a proposal that would have allowed helicopter tours near The Orlando Eye ... a 400-foot tall ferris wheel near several Orlando-area theme parks and resorts.

The Orlando Sentinel reports that the commission will reconsider the proposal in November, after it collects safety information from the FAA, and talks with other communities where such helicopter tours are popular.

Commissioner Ted Edwards said that the idea "just seems inherently dangerous," and even the aviation community was not fully behind the idea. Some rival helicopter companies expressed concerns and complaints about Rick Violette, who is the president of Orlando Heli-Tours, that would operate the new location.

Nearby residents also had the usual complaints about noise and safety in the neighborhoods surrounding the attractions.

The helipad has been requested by Chuck Whittall, the developer of the "I-Drive 360" entertainment complex that includes The Orlando Eye. The tours would operate from the roof of the complex's parking garage.

(Image from The Orlando Eye Facebook page)

FMI: http://i-drive360.com