New Yorkers Sick of Hovering Helicopters Prompt Bid to Tax Noise

New Yorkers have had enough of helicopters and seaplanes hovering above the city, carrying wealthy residents and photo-seeking tourists, all while subjecting people on the ground to the cacophony of whirring propellers.

Democrats who control the state Senate—especially those who represent neighborhoods tormented by helicopter sounds—have heard them just as loudly. They’re proposing a novel idea to make operators pay for the privilege: a noise tax.

While the proposed tax would only bring in $10 million to $15 million annually in a state with a projected $252 billion budget, it’s become a priority for many New York City Democrats fed ...