Helicopter operators file lawsuit challenging new noise curfew laws at airport in the Hamptons
A group representing helicopter operators has filed a lawsuit claiming new laws restricting flights at an airport in the Hamptons are unconstitutional.
The town of East Hampton enacted the laws last week. They address thousands of complaints it's received about noise from planes and helicopters shuttling the rich and famous into the Hamptons.
The laws are expected to go into effect Memorial Day weekend.
They include new curfews on the hours of operation and the number of flights permitted by noisy aircraft.
Friends of East Hampton Airport filed the lawsuit Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Central Islip (EYE'-slihp). The helicopter company Heliflite joined the suit.
The lawsuit claims local governments have no authority to impose airport noise or access restrictions.
East Hampton officials say they're confident they will prevail.