Though every case is different, proposals to restrict aviation access to federally-managed lands are generally inappropriate. General aviation pilots do not seek to hinder the experience of anyone taking advantage of recreational opportunities in these parks, forests, or wilderness areas. Most GA pilots fly over, or land in, these areas because they share an appreciation for outdoor recreation. Cooperation between the land management agencies has always been a cornerstone of aviation s efforts to preserve the park and wilderness experience for ground visitors. As part of our effort to preserve the experience of ground visitors and respect the natural quiet that visitors and wildlife enjoy, general aviation pilots currently observe a voluntary overflight minimum altitude of 2,000 feet above ground level.
General aviation contributes positively to the recreational experience.
Aircraft overflights do not leave litter behind, clog roads, or physically damage wilderness areas. Compared to other sources of noise and disturbance that visitors may experience in national parks, forests and wilderness areas, aviation brings very little noise. Aviation provides access to those physically unable to enjoy this often rough terrain from the ground. Aviation serves an essential purpose in search and rescue, firefighting, and forest and ecological management and research. In fact, the U.S. Forest Service has its own fleet of aircraft and it uses these backcountry airstrips extensively in its management efforts.