Congressman Accused of "Trying To Beat Up" Helo Tourism Industry

He's at it again. New York Congressman Anthony Weiner appears ready to re-introduce legislation that would "close key loopholes in the helicopter homeland security safety net" by requiring helicopters to fly over water only while in Manhattan airspace.

The bill, originally introduced and killed in 2004, would exempt take-offs and landings and "police, medical and other authorized helicopter traffic" as well as requiring the all passengers and baggage be screened by the Transportation Security Administration. It also stipulates helicopters remain in contact with the FAA regarding their flight path, regardless of altitude.

"Treating small airplanes just as seriously as we do jumbo jets is a welcome change, but it's only half the job," said Weiner. "History, known intelligence reports and common sense show the need for tighter regulations to secure the skies around Manhattan. It's not just a matter of safety for pilots and passengers, but also of security for citizens on the ground," according to the New York Press.

At a press conference in New York Saturday, Weiner said, "We are taking a common-sense step to make New York safer. Right now it is completely legal [for helicopters] to hover over buildings in Manhattan - that's what we are trying to ban."

Michael Roth, a helicopter charter owner, points out his helicopter never hover over buildings, according to the New York Daily News.

"He's pretty much trying to beat up on the helicopter tourism industry," he said.

"I am concerned about helicopters flying over a densely populated city," Weiner said. "I think it's dangerous, and I think it poses a threat."

One has to wonder what New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg has to say about all this, considering he's a helicopter pilot and flies himself around the city. The mayor may be trying to find just the right words... as there have been no reports of a response as of yet.

FMI: www.house.gov/weiner/