Background:
Lummi Islanders rely on and are grateful for medical helicopters, Coast Guard, and other agency aircraft that serve the island. Additionally, small regional airlines provide a valuable service in our area. Nonetheless, a growing number of Lummi Islanders are impacted by small aircraft frequenting the skies overhead, in part because Lummi Island sits in the direct path of the San Juan Islands and the Bellingham Airport.
Last summer, 40 island residents petitioned for a Lummi Island seat the Bellingham Airport Advisory Committee (BIAAC), which has roughly 24 seats and advises the Port of Bellingham on airport issues. It was hoped that the island could directly participate in discussions regarding good neighbor flight practices and safety. As well, the pending arrival of electric aviation presents an opportunity for regional airports to participate in the development and rollout of this quieter and more environmentally friendly technology. Unfortunately, the petition was rejected.
In an effort to address concerns as a community, LICA was requested to establish an Aviation Advisory Committee to collect and coordinate information and communication efforts. The LICA Board of Directors agreed to sponsor the committee, and announced its formation at the May 25th Membership meeting.
The committee is anticipated to include tasks such as surveying residents, collecting data, conducting research, coordinating with emergency services and regional communities, raising awareness, and participating in positive, and constructive messaging.
You can find the Committee’s full information page at:
Community > Committees & Research > LI Advisory, Aviation
