DOD To Reduce Military Flights Into Palm Springs

Rep. Mary Bono Mack, R-Palm Springs, said Friday that the Department of Defense plans to reduce military flights into Palm Springs International Airport as part of an effort to reduce noise levels, starting next month.

The announcement came on the heels of a meeting between Bono Mack and senior DOD officials, and several letters to Defense Secretary Leon Panetta, asking him to explain the increased number of flights into PSP, the congresswoman's office said in a statement.

There was a 58 percent jump in 2011 alone, according to Bono Mack, who added that the DOD also has plans to establish outreach programs to address noise issues.

“While I remain fully supportive of the military’s need to maintain current readiness rates, the dramatic increase in takeoffs and landings – especially in 2011 – raised some legitimate and serious concerns,” Bono Mack said. 

The jump was mainly from a one-time increase in Navy student pilot training exercises and a surge in pre-deployment activities of the Marine All Weather Attack Squadron.

“After re-evaluating its needs, DOD has agreed, for now, to reduce flights into PSP beginning next month. This is a positive development, and I thank Secretary Panetta for his attention to this matter. I am also encouraged by Secretary Panetta’s decision to establish outreach programs with the community and PSP. This partnership will help to mitigate any future problems,” she added.

DOD officials said the decision to cease operations of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing into Palm Springs will not impact military readiness.