Imagine standing on Kauai’s serene coastline or hiking in Waimea Canyon, only to have the tranquility shattered by the persistent hum of helicopter blades overhead. This is the reality for many visitors and residents, which we will attest to ourselves. Most recently, it was on a strenuous hike on the Awa’awapuhi Trail at Kokee. Our reward was a spectacular view, but the roar of helicopters above us significantly diminished the quietness.
This issue is at the heart of a new FAA petition from Blue Hawaiian Helicopters. The company is seeking an exemption to fly below the standard 1,500-foot minimum altitude during tours in specific areas of Kauai, including narrow ridge crossings. The public has until April 8, 2025, to comment on this proposal, which has reignited concerns about helicopter noise and its impact on the island’s environment and community.
Why the exemption request matters now.
The FAA petition has drawn attention because it could significantly change the dynamics of helicopter tours on Kauai. While flying closer to the terrain may provide more scenic views for passengers, it also risks amplifying the noise that disrupts the island’s peace.
For example, the constant noise from helicopters flying over Kokee State Park has ruined the calm vibe once enjoyed by visitors and residents alike. In our own experience, it isn’t unusual to hear up to 25 or more flights per hour and sometimes several within just a minute or two.
Blue Hawaiian’s request to fly lower could worsen this situation, and it’s raised fresh concerns about the future of Kauai’s generally peaceful and unspoiled environment.
While the company argues that it will enhance the sightseeing experience for tourists, residents like Anne H. have voiced strong opposition, noting that helicopter noise disrupts the otherwise tranquil experience they seek on the island. “The noise in residential areas disrupts the otherwise tranquility we all want to experience,” Anne commented, echoing concerns that have been voiced repeatedly by others who feel that the quiet beauty of Kauai is at risk.
Ongoing community concern over helicopter noise.
Kauai residents have long grappled with the impact of helicopter tours on the island’s serenity. As Chris T. pointed out, Kauai offers many alternatives for exploring the island without contributing to the noise pollution caused by helicopters. “There are so many other ways to explore Kauai: by car, to spectacular lookouts, easy short walks, longer hikes, and by boat,” he noted. “These are ways that are fun, immersive, tactile, and not as disruptive for everyone else.”
The constant noise from these flights has interrupted the peaceful hiking experience through places like Kokee State Park. Visitors often find the sounds of nature—the chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves—drowned out by the persistent hum of helicopter blades. This disruption also affects wildlife, such as the koae (white-tailed tropic birds), which rely on the high cliffs of Kauai for nesting and flight. The continuous noise can disturb their feeding and mating patterns, undermining the natural peace that defines the island.
Safety and risk of Kauai helicopter tours.
Helicopter tours are not without their risks, and many readers have expressed concerns about the safety of flying in such proximity to the island’s rugged terrain. In the wake of past accidents, including the 2019 Safari Helicopters crash on the Napali Coast, safety remains a hot topic.
While some, like Shawn C., believe that “life is full of risks” and are willing to accept the danger for the thrill of the experience, others, like Bob C., are more cautious, arguing that the risks associated with helicopter flights are too great. “Someone else’s carelessness and the failure of a government regulatory agency in enforcing safety measures means you’ve given control for your safety to strangers,” Bob commented, highlighting the potential dangers of entrusting your safety to tour operators.
Though there have been improvements in helicopter safety standards, such as the use of turbine-powered aircraft, the inherent risks of flying remain. These concerns are compounded by the challenging weather conditions in Hawaii, where low visibility and rapid weather changes pose significant dangers to pilots and passengers alike.
As Cindym noted in her comment, “I quite agree [with avoiding helicopter tours]… the incredible number of microclimates, very rapid weather changes in the mountains, low visibility, etc., makes me think I’d stick to fixed-wing aircraft.”
Tourism vs. tranquility: What is at stake.
Kauai’s economy heavily relies on tourism, and helicopter tours are an important part of that industry. Several years ago, we took a helicopter tour on Kauai and shared our mostly positive experiences. For visitors with mobility issues or who are short on time, a helicopter tour is one way to experience the magic of Kauai.
However, the growing tension between preserving the Garden Island’s peace and promoting tourism is becoming more pronounced. The impact of helicopter noise is not just an inconvenience—it disrupts the essential “wildness” of Kauai, which is what many visitors seek when they come to the island.
For those who value the island’s calm atmosphere, the increasing frequency of helicopter flights represents a loss of the Kauai they once knew. One resident shared, “While I understand the desire to see Kauai from the air, the constant noise has taken away the quiet, peaceful atmosphere that makes this island so special.” This sentiment reflects the growing concern that the increasing number of helicopters overshadows the island’s unique charm. While helicopters provide incredible aerial views, the potential for noise disturbance and safety risks often outweigh the benefits for some visitors.
Safety, past crashes, and government scrutiny.
The issue of safety has been brought to the forefront by tragic Hawaii helicopter tour accidents. These incidents have prompted the introduction of legislation like the Safe and Quiet Skies Act, which aimed to tighten regulations on helicopter and air tour operations to ensure both safety and noise mitigation. While the industry has made strides in improving helicopter safety, as seen with the shift toward turbine helicopters, the conversation about pilot experience, weather conditions, and the environmental impact of helicopter tours continues to evolve.
Rep. Ed Case’s reintroduction of the Safe and Quiet Skies Act in 2023 reflected growing concerns about regulating air tour operators, including noise abatement and safety measures. This legislation sought to empower local governments to impose more stringent controls on flight paths and operational practices, but it has not progressed.
What some BOH readers have said before.
The comments section from previous articles on Beat of Hawaii has offered valuable perspectives on the pros and cons of helicopter tours. While some readers like Michael have shared positive experiences, noting that the thrill of flying over Kauai’s stunning landscapes outweighed any initial fears, others, like Tammy M., have been deeply frustrated by the constant noise. “Before the sound of one would die away, you could hear another in the distance,” she commented, emphasizing how pervasive the issue of helicopter noise has become.
How to Submit a Comment Before April 8
The FAA will accept public comments on this petition until April 8, 2025. To make your voice heard, visit regulations.gov and search for the issue’s docket number, FAA-2025-0301. Public participation is critical in influencing the outcome of this petition, so we encourage residents, visitors, and anyone concerned about Kauai helicopter tours to submit their comments.
What happens next, and what to watch for?
Once the public comment period closes, the FAA will review all submitted feedback before deciding on Blue Hawaiian’s request. While there is no set timeline for a decision, the outcome of this petition will have significant implications for Kauai’s tourism industry, its residents and visitors, and the island’s long-term sustainability, both environmentally and financially.
We welcome your input.
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A classic and common tussle between greed and common sense. It is difficult to miss the slide toward the acquisition of profit in nearly every aspect of existence in this country. It would be one thing if it benefited everyone, but it does not. It benefits those who already are substantially wealthy. Others get crumbs. Anyone who has been on a trail on Kaua’i would vote this proposal down. The noise level is already overly intrusive and affects the quality of the outdoor experience in a significant and negative way. No!
Hawaii’s helicopter tour industry originated on Kauai. Vietnam vets were owners, pilots and neighbors in a time when a helicopter tour was a novelty. The sightseeing experience and happy customers spawned more competitors, more impact.
Blue Hawaiian become a big presence and was sold by its original
(resident)owners some years back. The individual now in charge takes instruction from absentee corporate types wanting a return on investment. How to sell a big ticket activity to visitors battered by high resort prices? On Kauai fixed wing tours are less expensive and can pretty much do what a helicopter does, given the imposed altitude restrictions. Blue wants to enhance their product there.
Blue’s new decision makers were not present in the 80’s when counties and national parks responded to public input on noise and proximity. The FAA made changes for safety…
Hawaii’s marketable but fragile splendor, and resident wellbeing are more important than any corporate bottom line.
I too was buzzed by a helicopter in 2010 on the Nualolo Cliff Trail right as I was attempting to cross the washed out section (with a 3800 foot dropoff) that led to that part of the trail being closed for a period and re-routed. The helicopter hovered right over me to watch, and the noise made the situation feel dramatically more stressful. Noise from helicopters definitely impacts the experience for others.
Also, from my experience, seems like they fly below the minimum altitude now. In the back of Kalalau Valley by Big Pool it sounds like they are right above the trees. Sometimes feels like a war zone back there it’s so loud from helicopters.
I myself think that the height they are flying now is perfect. To go lower may be a danger to humans and animals
With the exception of one or two comments no BOH readers are ok with Helicopter flights or the Seaglider. Takes NIMBY to a whole new level-Not in my sky or ocean . Entitled much?
The seaglider hasn’t even started yet and although I am excited by the possibility that they will come to the Hawaiian Islands, I wouldn’t compare them to helicopter tours. For one, the sea glider is all electric and if it’s like an electric car (that I have driven on Maui for the last 3 years), it will be much quieter than a helicopter. I must say that this was “one” thing I didn’t like when I was in Kauai. On my last day, I decided to visit the Lihue area and the constant helicopter noise was definitely annoying. Furthermore, as BOH previously reported, there have already been many accidents and how they want to risk lives and the environment with flying even lower? I am definitely opposed and hope the residents in Kauai will show up in big number to oppose this craziness.
Entitled, Rob?
Noise and light pollution is real. Cutting down rain forests is real. If we don’t protect our natural resources they will be gone forever, especially in Hawaii! I have seen many noise ordinances on the mainland as well as light pollution. The best thing to do during a power outage here is to go out and look up at the stars! There’s many camping locations around in rural areas which used to offer great views of the heavens, until a Walmart comes in and washes the sky with light pollution!
It’s not a Nimby thing, it’s a nature thing. Please understand.
What’s the difference. You hear airlines taking off from HNL over diamond head all the time when you are on Waikiki Beach. Are you gonna complain about jet ski’s and such if they are hitting the waves and such when you are on a beach. These helicopter tours that fly low probably cost way more than the one’s that fly above 1500 feet ceiling. Not to say it’s right but wealthy or rich people hate to walk or do physical work. This gives them a birds eye view of what someone sees after some vigorous hike. Have you ever thought that Hawaii is catering to the rich and the heck with everyone else? How much noise do these elite people hear from inside the helicopter? One thing it don’t do is echo.
These helicopters are horrible and very invasive! I wish they would be banned altogether!
As a professional drone pilot we are not allowed to fly in national parks for fear of disturbing visitors of the parks and the wildlife that inhabit the parks. The same care should be taken in Kauai with the helicopter tours. Noise pollution is a real issue. 25 helicopters in one hour is way too much already; lowering the altitude will just make the noise intensity even higher.
This is a terrible idea. Haven’t they learned anything? currently, helicopters are strictly regulated from flying over neighborhoods. However, Small Planes are not! There are two, small plane tour companies that fly out of Lihue Airport with no regulation whatsoever about flying tours over residential areas. They make up to 20 flights a day over the Kalaheo area and it is very disturbing in more ways than one—noise is constant. An even bigger concern is the safety factor of them having an emergency and making a crash landing, God forbid–as that would be catastrophic with all the homes in this heavily populated residential area.
The FAA has stated that any regulations affect flying across all airports—Kauai should have special laws. Hopefully, Case’s Safe and Quiet Skies Act can address this, as well.
They do this on the Big Island as well. You can’t enjoy Kilauea without the omnipresent noise of multiple helicopters. Once again, the entitled few spoil the experience for everyone else.
During my college years I lived in the Midwest near Chicago’s O’Hare airport, world’s busiest at the time. There was a huge controversy going on because they wanted to lengthen several runways for 747s and other wide body planes. This would have the jets lifting off right over long established homes that had been there “forever,” and causing new high decibel disruption as well.
When these folks bought or built their houses they had no such issues. The airport won, even though the towns voted No! My point is, there seems to be an aerial “eminent domain” when it comes to flying. Question is: can the FAA overrule Kauai, or even state government?
Helicopter tours were a dream come true for me the first time I visited. But now, after countless trips to Kauai, I avoid them because it is clear how intrusive they’ve become. What’s the point of promoting eco-tourism when the noise pollution is deafening? There needs to be a reset on helicopter tours in my opinion.
I live nearby and I can tell you, it’s nonstop. Some mornings I count them every 2-3 minutes. It’s not just noise—it’s psychological. You can’t enjoy your yard, your hike, or your thoughts without being buzzed by metal birds. And now they want to fly lower?
This is such complex issue. As a pilot myself, I know how much training and caution goes into these tours. But as someone who also values Kauai’s natural, quiet peace, I believe we need stronger guardrails, not relaxed rules. Flying lower in narrow ridges feels like the wrong direction—both literally and figuratively.
I took my dad on a helicopter tour when his knees gave out and he couldn’t hike anymore. It was the highlight of his trip and probably his life. I get the noise concern, I seriously do, but there has to be a middle ground. Maybe restrict certain areas or times, but don’t eliminate the experience altogether.
I used to love camping in Kokee, but the last time I was there, I couldn’t even hear the birds over the constant hum of helicopters. It’s heartbreaking to see such a sacred, peaceful place being drowned out for the sake of tourism dollars. If we allow flights to go even lower, what little serenity is left might be gone for good. I say no.
We’ve been coming to Kauai for 25 years and the increase in helicopter noise is really noticeable. I miss the quiet hikes in Kokee.
We live on Oahu and have up to 200 helicopters per day fly behind our house. It is often constant rotor noise as they fly by every 3 minutes or so, 10 hours per day, seven days per week. I have written to everyone I can think of but nothing is done to relieve this attack on our quality of life.
I also believe the helicopters’ incessant auditory and physical intrusions are a violation of the federal Endangered Species Act and this act should be enforced and prioritized over helicopter company profit to help protect the islands’ struggling wildlife.
We dealt with a helicopter sightseeing operation in Tahoe, living 1/2 mile north of the airport the Helicopter was barely above tree top level, nowhere near 500 feet. He charged $45 for a 10 min flight and would fly when he got 4 passengers. He even strarted Landing demos in the meadow across the street from us, on Private property, claiming he thought it was public property. My neighbor (fire chief) confronted the pilot at the airport about moving his machine out of the space he wasn’t supposed to be parked while the pilot was pouring cans of oil into the engine, thing leaked oil a lot. Anyway we endured the annoying and peace disturbing flights no less than 3-5 in and out flights all day long, until he moved his operation to the Carson Valley away from Tahoe and never came back. We had to deal with the jerk for over 2 years before he left town. I really hope the local residents can defeat any increase in flights especially lower altitude.
I you have something here, Bob. Maybe hitting them in the pocketbook might discourage the move to fly lower. You might even get more than just withdrawal of that request. You might lobby for some coordination of limiting flight hours to give people “quiet time” on the trail, or at home barbecue on the lanai!
What do you think? Does Kauai have a “green group” willing to lobby/picket the helicopter operators for this. I’ll bet you some tourists might think twice if you point out that they’re disturbing native wildlife?
There is no need to lower altitudes. This makes no sense Blue Hawaiian. Must be new management.
Require all helicopters to have floats in case of a water landing. Operators have fought this for years because of the cost of acquisition and maintenance but it is essential for safety reasons.