Joti Rekhi

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Aug 28, 2025, 5:40 PM

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Updated

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Gov. Phil Murphy is urging the Federal Aviation Administration to reduce non-essential helicopter flights departing from the Kearny Heliport to New York City following a deadly helicopter crash earlier this year.

In a recently written letter addressed to the FAA, Murphy cited the fatal April crash that killed six people when a helicopter broke apart over the East River, just steps from the Jersey City waterfront. That tragedy followed a similar crash in 2018 that claimed five lives.

In his letter, the governor cited concerns over thousands of low-flying aircraft causing noise disruptions and safety concerns over densely populated parts of Hoboken and Jersey City.

RELATED: Hoboken files lawsuit against FAA over ‘dangerous’ and ‘disruptive’ helicopters

RELATED: New NTSB report shows helicopter breaking apart midair before fatal Hudson River crash

Murphy’s request includes several key changes:

• Rerouting flights from Kearny to fly over Newark Bay rather than residential areas in Hudson County

• Limiting operational hours for non-essential flights between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.

• Sharply reducing the number of nonessential flights

Many local residents, like Nelisse Estremera, a Jersey City native, say they hear the helicopters going by at all hours. She said it was very tragic and traumatic seeing the fatal crash of April 2025.

“I think that would be great. It would give people peace of mind. Not too much congestion going on,” said Estremera.

Another New Jersey resident, who identified himself only as Matt, said, “Between Newark Airport and everything else, I think they already hear a lot of aircraft go by. I think [Murphy’s plan] would help. And the night regulations, too.”

Despite growing support from lawmakers and local communities, the FAA has not yet issued a formal response to Murphy’s request.