Calls Security Flyovers A "Waste of Money" In A Tough Economy

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has grounded its fleet of two Sikorsky helicopters, saying that the annual $3.7 million price tag for security flyovers is a "waste of money" in a difficult economy.

Port Authority police had flown over the city's airports and bridges twice a day Monday through Friday to check security. The New York Daily News reports that 90% of the security flights in an 8 month period last year uncovered nothing out of the ordinary.

Some flights had other purposes, such as security sweeps for VIPs and Port Authority business meetings. One was uncovered that took someone not employed by the Port Authority up for an "aerial overview" of the city.

The New York Post reports that the three pilots were told they were being let go Thursday effective at the end of the month. They reportedly will receive six months severance pay. The ground crews were told they were being reassigned. The Port Authority plans to sell its two helicopters, which could fetch about $8.5 million.

The Port Authority said if it needed helicopters, it could call on the NYPD, New Jersey State Police, or the city of Newark, all of which have helicopters that can respond to an emergency.

FMI: www.panynj.gov