Burlington Residents Want New Neighbor's R44 Banned

A resident of Burlington, Connecticut is proving that old saying that forgiveness is easier to get than permission. Businessman Paul Blanchette wants to fly his Robinson R44 (file photo of similar R44 shown) from a helipad at his new home on Ventres Way, just as he did from his previous home on Daniel Trace, but his neighbors are rallying against him.

The Hartford Courant reports the neighbors have organized as the "Burlington Residential Airspace Safety Organization," a name which seems ripe for a showdown with the FAA over federal precedent in controlling airspace. They're asking the town council to create an ordinance banning aviation activity in residential areas.

One problem with that approach is that aviation activities have historically been allowed in other parts of town. First Selectwoman Catherine Bergstrom notes Blanchette has complied with all relevant ordinances in operating his aircraft from his previous address, and notes, "any enforcement action at this time would be selective and inconsistent with past practice."

The neighbors are stretching a bit to make a case. One says he fears the helicopter will start a forest fire, shutting off the only access by road to the neighborhood, and trapping residents in their homes.

Blanchette says he would address his neighbors' concerns, but so far, they haven't been willing to talk to him. He's made it clear he is willing to adhere to an existing FAA limit of 36 takeoffs and landings per year from residential areas.

The Burlington Board of Selectmen voted this week to table discussion of a new ordinance pending further study.

FMI: www.faa.gov, www.burlington.org/selectmen/