VAI Briefs: Legislative priorities for the Northeastern US during 2025 By Josh Rousseau, VAI Northeastern US regional representative While 2024 saw some progress with legislative advancements for vertical aviation operators in the Northeastern United States, 2025 is already off to a rapid start. The New York City Council recently advanced Int. 0026-2024 (a bill sponsored by Councilmember Amanda Farías, chair of the council’s Committee on Economic Development), which seeks to restrict nonessential helicopter operations at city heliports to those powered entirely by electric engines. As negotiations continue, VAI remains steadfast in opposing this proposed legislation, which we believe overlooks the broader implications for the industry. Preparing for the future requires investing in today’s vertical aviation infrastructure and addressing current priorities. While VAI champions the advancements in advanced air mobility and electric vertical takeoff and landing technologies and their transformative potential, we are equally committed to the vital services that vertical aviation provides today. Efforts to limit current operations and facilities have a significant, chilling effect on commerce, economic growth, workforce development, and job creation. VAI’s 2025 advocacy priorities for the Northeastern United States include: • Investing in current and future vertical aviation infrastructure • Preserving the West 30th Street Heliport (KJRA) in New York City • Maintaining/expanding access to New York City heliports and regional heliports • Opposing ill-informed operational and noise restrictions • Supporting workforce development investments and programs • Collaborating on community compatibility • Advancing low-carbon emission initiatives with states • Introducing pro–vertical aviation legislation. If you would like to learn more about the New York City Council bill, don’t hesitate to reach out to Josh Rousseau at joshr@verticalavi.org. Stay informed, stay engaged, and be ready to act. Let’s Power Up for a successful 2025!
