# Plain Language Summary: Hawaii Air Tour Management Act of 2023

This bill tells the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to create a formal plan for managing helicopter and small airplane tours over Hawaii's scenic areas—basically, the sightseeing flights that take tourists over waterfalls, volcanoes, and coastlines. Right now, there's no coordinated system for these tours, which means they can operate somewhat freely in most parts of Hawaii (except national parks, which already have their own rules). The bill requires the FAA to work with Hawaii's governor to develop a management plan within two years that would set standards for where these tours can fly, how many flights are allowed, and other operational rules.

The practical impact is that this could reduce noise complaints from residents who live near popular tour routes, protect sensitive natural areas from being overwhelmed by aircraft, and potentially improve safety by having clearer guidelines. Tourists might see some changes in which tours are available or when they can operate, though the bill doesn't specify exactly what restrictions would be put in place—that's something the FAA and Hawaii's governor would decide together. Tour operators will need to follow whatever rules get established in the plan, which could mean some companies need to adjust their routes or schedules.

Until this new plan is finalized, the FAA can still issue temporary operating permits to tour companies so the industry doesn't get shut down while the planning process happens. One important detail: the bill specifically says that the normal federal rule-making process (which usually requires public comment periods and detailed explanations) won't apply to creating this plan, meaning it could be developed and implemented faster than typical government procedures would allow.

Hawaii Air Tour Management Act of 2023

Hawaii Air Tour Management Act of 2023 This bill requires the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to establish an air tour management plan for areas of Hawaii that are not located within the National Park System. (Current law requires the FAA to establish air tour management plans for national parks and tribal lands that are within or abutting a national park.) The FAA and Hawaii must enter into an agreement to establish (1) the content of an air tour management plan, (2) the procedure for establishing a plan, and (3) the responsibilities of each party in carrying out the plan. Prior to the establishment of this air tour management plan, the FAA may grant an air tour operator that is operating within Hawaii, and not within the National Park System, interim operating authority. The legal requirements of the Administrative Procedure Act do not apply to the establishment of an air tour management plan under this bill.