But Bassett said most air tour companies based at the park airport in Arizona were spared other immediate route modifications due to safety concerns the group brought to the FAA's attention. Safety over the Grand Canyon became an issue after a helicopter and tour plane collided in June 1986, killing 25 people. Environmentalists welcomed the new flight paths, although they do not affect popular flights leaving from the South Rim that fly over the canyon in a circular route. What's disappointing is they didn't address changes in the eastern part of the park. The FAA has said the regulations, which take effect April 19, ensure that more than a third of the park would be free from aircraft noise at least three-quarters of the time.
Summer is the busiest season.
A 1987 federal law sponsored by Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., required the government to restore natural quiet to the canyon.