On Long Island, federal lawmakers announced that the Federal Aviation Administration has revised its air traffic procedures for flights into New York City's Kennedy Airport to reduce aircraft noise pollution.
Congressman Tom Suozzi and Senator Charles Schumer worked with the FAA, community members, and local stakeholders to implement procedures to reduce aircraft noise following thousands of complaints from New Yorkers.
Under the new procedure, all aircrafts flying into JFK airport must maintain the highest operational altitude — 3,000 feet — as long as possible when conditions permit until they begin their descent.
While the change only applies to JFK, the FAA will consider similar measures to mitigate plane noise around other airports in the New York metropolitan area.
Suozzi said the announcement brings a welcome break to North Shore residents who have endured airplane noise for decades.