FAA Reverses Course on Heliport Closure Following Public Comment
The FAA has withdrawn its notice of permanent closure for the Indianapolis Downtown Heliport (8A4).
This is a major win for vertical aviation, and it comes thanks in no small part due to the passionate helicopter pilots like you who petitioned the FAA to prevent permanent closure.
Earlier this year, Enstrom company owner Chuck Surack launched a grassroots campaign called the Sunlight Coalition to help gather public comment. You might remember, back in February, we made a call to action in this newsletter, requesting anyone with an interest in aviation to advocate for keeping the heliport open. By the time submissions closed, 737 people had responded, with an overwhelming 93% writing in favor of protecting the heliport.
Following the FAA’s decision, Indiana attorney general Todd Rokita said, “The downtown heliport is a unique asset that, in addition to serving passengers and general aviation, also serves law enforcement, homeland security, military support, and emergency medical services. Closing it for non-aviation redevelopment would have been shortsighted and contrary to the public interest.”
In its 35-page determination, the FAA directed the Indianapolis Airport Authority to preserve the aviation infrastructure and make the heliport available for public use, meaning the IAA must maintain its AIP obligations. To be clear, the FAA has not ordered a sale or established a timetable for reopening. The next challenge will be turning this regulatory victory into a workable ownership or operating arrangement.
While there is still much work to do, thanks to your help, there is finally a path forward. Stay tuned for more updates and developments!
About Enstrom Helicopter
From Rudy Enstrom’s early designs in 1943 to initial testing in a Michigan Quarry in 1957 to aircraft operating on six continents, Enstrom Helicopter Corporation has maintained a reputation for safety, value and performance. Based in Menominee, Michigan and proudly made in the United States, Enstrom has a rich history for design innovation. The goal is to provide helicopters to the customer’s exact specification and deliver support and maintenance worldwide.