Local Resident Flew In Close Proximity To Boaters

After investigating a complaint about a helicopter flying low last summer over Candlewood Lake near Danbury, Connecticut, the FAA determined that the pilot did in fact violate regulations and will decide what actions to take.

The Robinson R-22 was flown by New Milford resident Avi Shevah, who allegedly flew low over the lake and hovered in close proximity to boaters. These unsubstantiated actions took place during a series of flights between late July and early September, according to a complaint submitted to the FAA.

The complaint said the helicopter hovered below the limits allowed under FAA regulations and that it was operated in an unsafe manner. Michael Safranek, manager of the Danbury Municipal Airport (KDXR), filed the complaint leading to the FAA investigation.

A notice from the FAA said their investigation “substantiated that a violation of an order, regulation or standard of the FAA occurred related to helicopter operation. Accordingly, the FAA is taking appropriate action to address the matter.”

No details were provided in the notification regarding the specific violations or what potential actions the agency may take. Safranek agreed with the FAA saying, “I do believe that flying that low over people on boats is absolutely inappropriate and uncalled for.”

He added that the FAA “is charged with keeping aviation as safe as possible. I am happy I received notification that they will move forward and there will be consequences.”

For his part, Shevah said he has not received any notice from the FAA about an investigation, and that it’s not the first time he’s received complaints about his flying. He said, “People complain all the time. I’m not worried about it. I didn’t do anything wrong.”

Video and photos seem to show the helicopter traversing and hovering between about 20 and 50 feet above the lake’s surface, so we’ll see what the FAA comes back with.

FMI:  www.danbury-ct.gov/