AOPA fights eminent domain threat to New Jersey airports

AOPA fights eminent domain threat to New Jersey airports

AOPA recently met with New Jersey legislators as part of an effort to protect privately owned, public-use airports. Eminent domain allows the government to seize and redevelop private property against the will of property owners in the name of the public interest. In New Jersey, where 28 of the state’s 43 public-use general aviation airports are privately owned, local governments are under pressure from airport opponents and developers to use eminent domain proceedings to close privately owned fields. “Public-use airports serve the public interest by creating jobs, providing transportation options for individuals and businesses, and supporting emergency services,” said Joey Colleran, AOPA manager of state legislative affairs. “We will fight to make sure they get protection from eminent domain proceedings.”

February 22, 2008