BILL NUMBER: S9489
SPONSOR: COONEY
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the general business law, in relation to requiring heli-
copter pilots to have completed certain training before operating a
helicopter within the state
 
PURPOSE:
This legislation would require those who operate helicopters in New York
State to complete a helicopter safety and risk management training
course utilizing a flight simulator training device certified by either
the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or the European aviation safe-
ty agency in addition to any requirements of the FAA.
 
SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:
Section one adds a new section to the general business law that would
require those who operate helicopters in New York State complete a heli-
copter safety and risk management training course utilizing a flight
simulator training device certified by either the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) or the European aviation safety agency in addition
to any requirements of the FAA.
Section two establishes the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
This bill aims to make the operation of helicopters in New York State
safer. Like any other mode of transportation, from driving a truck to
flying a jet, the safety of helicopter flights often depends on the
preparedness of the operator.
This legislation requires individuals who operate helicopters in Nev
York State to complete a safety and risk management training course.
Additionally, it requires said course to utilize a flight simulator
training device, which is used to practice flying routines and to repli-
cate abnormal and emergency procedures that would be otherwise impossi-
ble to practice. These devices can help new pilots learn and they can
help experienced pilots sharpen their skills. Comprehensive safety
training can make the difference between life or death, and requiring
individuals who operate helicopters in New York State to complete this
training with a simulator will make New Yorkers safer.
 
LEGISIATIVE HISTORY:
2021-22: S.3930 REFERRED TO TRANSPORTATION
2019-2020: REFERRED TO TRANSPORTATION
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
To be determined.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
The ninetieth day after it shall have become a law

Statutes affected:
S9489: 241 general business law