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yeah you're right about the security need. it seems even the boringest policing/patrol need (238/258 no incidents) is pretty minimal.

I wonder how they picked up the choppers and how long it's taken to make this decision.

They don't need a helicopter, and they certainly don't need two. The Port Authority's primary mission is not security, nor was it ever intended to be. The state police have helicopters and so does the NYPD if there is a need for security.

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This isn't the first retrenchment of the post-9/11 anti-terror enforcement efforts.

As it stands, the Port Authority has it's hands in the ports, NY real estate, the WTC, the PATH of course, airports, etc.

Surely they can think of a way to monetize these helis without selling them off. I'm not saying that's the best idea for $ or PD/ enforcement reasons. I'm just saying the PA is a profit engine as it is, so the idea of monetizing their holdings isn't so far-fetched.

That is pricey. Think I can still get a loan with no money down?

It includes a pair of Sikorsky S-76 helicopters, one purchased new in 2003, and valued at $6.3 million, and a 1984 model that could fetch between $1.9 million and $2.9 million, according to the agency analysis.

Seems pricey.

How much?

Glad to hear it, or not hear it haha.

Best news I've heard all day. Hated how the port authority would hover their helicoptors downtown. Expecially that big white and blue and extremely loud blackhawk copter flown at extremely low levels.

Thanks for the quiet Port Authority.

P.S. Do not try and sell to Jersey City, we can't afford the chopers - we're broke.

Port Authority to Ground Helicopter Unit, Sell 2 Choppers


TETERBORO, N.J. (AP/ 1010 WINS) -- The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is eliminating its helicopter fleet and selling the two choppers.

Officials say the move will save about $4 million a year at a time when revenues continue to decline amid the economic downturn.

The agency says it can call upon police helicopters in New York City and New Jersey during an emergency.

Port Authority PBA president Paul Nunziato says the agency is putting cost concerns ahead of public safety.

An in-house analysis found 228 of the 258 flights between August 2008 through April 2009 were patrols that found no unusual incidents. The remaining 30 flights included missing persons searches, business trips, photo shoots, memorial flyovers and tours.

The unit has three pilots, three mechanics, two maintenance supervisors and an operations agent.