"A federal appeals court in Washington today dismissed a challenge brought against the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) by a consortium of local governments, including Westport, over an airspace redesign project.

Opponents said the project would route more large planes over southwestern Connecticut while the FAA said changes in flight paths and flight procedure would reduce delays at airports in the northeast.

Attorney General Richard Blumenthal announced that he will immediately seek a rehearing.

“This decision is dead wrong—disregarding essential legal issues, and the impact of increased noise and pollution on millions of residents and state parks,” said Blumenthal, who had argued the case before the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals last month. 

“I am determined to continue this battle, helping to lead a solid coalition, and will immediately seek a rehearing before the full court, asking it to reverse the three-judge panel.”

The critics of the FAA proposal alleged the redesign violated the National Environmental Policy Act, the Department of Transportation Act and the Clean Air Act." ...

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