PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Four prominent Oregon legislators are pressing federal officials for explanations regarding the recent surge of helicopter activity over Portland. U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici and Maxine Dexter, along with Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, have formally questioned the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and its Secretary, Kristi Noem, about why the agency continues to deploy helicopters over the city and how long the operations will persist.
In a letter dated October 14, the lawmakers said Portland residents have reported helicopters hovering over the city for hours each day since at least September 27. The flights, they noted, have generated widespread public frustration and concern about noise pollution, government transparency, and resource allocation.
According to the letter, the Port of Portland logged more than 40 noise complaints on September 27 and 28 alone—over four times the total number received during the previous fiscal year. The lawmakers described the growing frustration among residents as both emotional and physical, citing frequent disruptions to daily life…