According to the FAA's docket, everyone from leading aviation associations to Long Island residents have called the rules unnecessary and misguided. "We're hoping the FAA will return to the drawing table with us to explore voluntary approaches way to further mitigate noise and build upon our outstanding safety record," Smith added.

The ERHC, along with several groups, urged the FAA to "withdraw its proposal in its entirety."

Comments included:

Pilot Nadine Fetsko: "It's unconscionable that the FAA would actually consider implementing this in the absence of any sound studies, radar returns, or any quantifiable data that support the premise that a major issue exists. This rule simply denies all logic and could potentially create an enforcement nightmare for FAA on both the federal and local levels.

NBAA called the rule "unsafe, unwise and unnecessary."

HAI said the rule "has no merit, safety or airspace utilization enhancement, nor benefit for aircraft operators or the communities of Long Island, and is absent any technical, safety, and operational analysis."

Eastern Region Helicopter Council (ERHC) is a non-profit organization incorporated in 1979 by local helicopter pilots. ?Since its inception, ERHC has always had an active community outreach program to address the concerns of residents relating to helicopter and heliport issues and was awarded the first ever Fly Neighborly Award by HAI. ??Our first priority always has been, and remains safety