OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Stephanie Hanna (O) 202/208-6416

December 31, 1996 Dept of Transportation: Les Dorr (O) 202/267-8521

COMMERCIAL AIR TOUR OVERFLIGHT BAN ANNOUNCED FOR

ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

Secretary of the Interior Bruce Babbitt and Secretary of Transportation Federico Pena today announced new Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations designed to protect the natural environment of Rocky Mountain National Park. The new special flight rules for the park will preserve that natural environment by banning commercial sightseeing overflights.

“I am delighted that we were able to comply with President Clinton’s directive and announce the protection of natural quiet in Rocky Mountain National Park by prohibiting commercial overflight tours,” Secretary of the Interior Bruce Babbitt said. “Too often, we wait until peace and tranquility are destroyed before realizing that they are landscape values worth protecting. This time we’re doing it right.”

Although there are currently no commercial air tours over the park, several operators have recently explored possibilities for conducting overflights. Governor Roy Roemer and members of Colorado’s congressional delegation and other officials have requested a preemptive ban on air tour operations to preserve visitor enjoyment. Park officials estimate that 50 percent of the park can already be seen from its 149 miles of road.

“I want to acknowledge the leadership of Congressman David Skaggs. His tireless commitment to protecting the pristine environment of Rocky Mountain National Park helped to ensure that today’s action became a reality,” Secretary of Transportation Federico Pena said.

The new flight rules will stay in effect until the FAA and the National Park Service develop a comprehensive commercial overflight strategy for all national parks.

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