Picture of Helicopters Seems Unfair, Distorted
I have read many stories about groups that paint a distorted picture of helicopters. They want you to believe that our skies are crowded with reckless and violating chopper pilots in the air for hours at a time, hovering and buzzing households without regard.
These groups do not speak for me, nor do they use logic when it comes to explaining what some helicopters are doing over Los Angeles.
On Dec. 20 and 26, helicopters were used for life-saving duties.
I witnessed a “life-guard” Lear Jet land at Van Nuys Airport on Dec. 20 with a chopper standing ready to transport its valuable cargo to an area hospital. (The term lifeguard refers to a patient or donated organ that is being airlifted for medical purposes.)
On the 26th, a car accident in Van Nuys put Van Nuys Airport and its Fire Department helicopters into action again.
While politicians are quick to jump on the anti-airport bandwagon, let them think a little while before they complain. The helicopter flying over your house just might be involved in saving someone’s life.
JAMES ACOSTA
Van Nuys
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