French authorities tackle helo noise

In a move to end the longstanding dispute between helicopter operators and residents around the exclusive sea resort of Saint-Tropez in southeast France, local authorities have issued new rules. Ten spots in Saint-Tropez and neighboring Ramatuelle and Gassin are allowed for helicopter landings and takeoffs. Hours of operations are 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Daily aircraft movements are limited to 10 or 20, depending on the city. The cities will hold weekly meetings to assess how operators are complying and will possibly change hours of operations and caps on movements.