SPP 12-143 Paradise Helicopters - Laserfiche WebLink

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I I Paradise Helicopters Special Permit Application The Puna Community Development Plan contains the following statement in Section 2 on Historic, Cultural and Scenic Resources: c. Areas of scenic and cultural interest are accessible to the public in a manner that does not detract from their aesthetic, natural and cultural value. Applicant's Response: The sights offered to the visitors through landing at Mr. Thompson's home are unique. No adverse scenic effects would occur, and the goals related to natural beauty in the General Plan or Puna Community Development Plan would not be violated. Helicopter Noise Setting Mr. Thompson's home is situated in Royal Gardens, adjacent to Hawal*'i Volcanoes National Park (HVNP or the Park). Due to the lava disaster, he has the only occupied home within two miles in any direction. As shown in the attached figure, this area experiences substantial helicopter and fixed wing tour traffic associated with lava viewing, in an areas termed by the Park the Pu'u O'o Concentrated Flight Zone. Currently there are around 18,000 flights annually allowed under the annual tour aircraft authorization known as an 'Interim operating authority (IOA), which allows for as many as 28,441 from 11 helicopter and 4 fixed wing operators. The IOA specifies various routes throughout the park that seek to avoid areas where most on-ground Park visitors are present. Nevertheless, during peak periods, the Park experiences up to 60 flights per day, and flights tend to circle multiple times at viewing areas and fly above neighboring communities. Over the years since the Kilauea East Rift eruption began in 1983, air tours of the area have gradually 'increased. Residents of the South Hilo and Puna Districts along with officials from HVNP have expressed concern with the 'Impacts of helicopter noise on the area on natural and cultural resources, HVNP and other recreational visitor experiences, and the peace and quiet of residents. 16