The bill sHB5202 File No. 322, known as "AN ACT IMPLEMENTING THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE CONNECTICUT AIRPORT AUTHORITY," introduces amendments to the existing aviation-related statutes, with an effective date of July 1, 2024, for most sections, and October 1, 2024, for others. The bill expands the definitions within the aviation laws to include "unmanned aircraft" and "vertiport," and updates the term "airman" to reflect current roles while excluding certain individuals. It mandates the annual registration of aircraft with municipalities by October first and outlines the executive director's responsibilities regarding the registration and licensing of aviation facilities. The bill also sets forth the process for applying for certificates of approval or licenses for airports, heliports, and vertiports, including the possibility of public hearings and the revocation of certificates or licenses for non-compliance. It requires annual reporting by facility owners or operators, allows for federal cooperation and funding for aeronautical projects, and establishes fines for non-compliance with record-keeping and operation regulations.

Additionally, the bill addresses the operation of unmanned aircraft, expanding the definition of "Operator" to include those authorizing drone operation and updating the definition of "Substantial damage." It introduces the concept of an "unmanned aircraft accident" and specifies investigation and hearing procedures for such accidents. The bill includes penalties for tampering with airport security and sets immediate notification and reporting requirements for aircraft accidents. It prohibits the operation of aircraft or drones under the influence of intoxicating substances, allows the Connecticut Airport Authority to adopt procedures for drone operation, and prohibits equipping aircraft with weapons or operating drones at low altitudes over private premises without consent. The bill also defines "critical infrastructure facility" and restricts drone operation near such facilities, classifying violations as a class A misdemeanor. It modifies alcohol sales hours at Bradley International Airport and includes potential costs and revenue gains related to the bill's provisions.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 15-34, 15-41, 15-71b, 15-45, 15-66, 15-69, 15-71a, 15-72, 15-73, 15-74a, 15-77
TRA Joint Favorable Substitute: 15-34, 15-41, 15-71b, 15-45, 15-66, 15-69, 15-71a, 15-72, 15-73, 15-74a, 15-77
File No. 322: 15-34, 15-41, 15-71b, 15-45, 15-66, 15-69, 15-71a, 15-72, 15-73, 15-74a, 15-77