The quaint town of Alpine, nestled between Idaho’s Palisades Reservoir and the Wyoming Range, is experiencing an unexpected clash as locals confront a surge in air traffic.

What was once a serene community of around 1,000 residents now finds itself at the center of a heated conflict, where booming jet engines and military-grade aircraft disrupt the peace—and allegedly pose risks to public safety.

A Town Transformed by the Roar of Jets

With Alpine’s proximity to Grand Teton National Park, its quiet charm and scenic views have long been a haven for outdoor lovers.

However, a 5,850-foot airstrip stretching along the Wyoming-Idaho border has now drawn wealthy aviation enthusiasts who treat the skies as their playground.

Residents say the frequent, loud, and sometimes reckless flyovers by powerful jets have turned Alpine into an unwelcome “airshow,” jeopardizing safety and serenity.

Residents Speak Out Against Air Traffic Surge

Jay Goodrich, a lifelong Alpine resident and private pilot, describes the activity as “a circus” above his peaceful hometown.

While Goodrich supports skill-building for pilots, he questions the presence of military-style jets.

“It’s extreme wealth versus the common man,” he shared, reflecting frustrations about the increased noise and the potential dangers involved.

Goodrich recalls that the airstrip was initially intended for single-engine planes operated by experienced pilots, yet today, jets and military-grade aircraft dominate the skies.

Fourth of July Shock and Growing Safety Concerns

Matt Grant, who lives near the Alpine Airpark, recounts how his home trembled under the roar of jets during his first Fourth of July in town, likening the experience to a scene from a “Top Gun” movie.

The tranquility of the neighborhood, which is governed by rules set forth by the Forest Service, was shattered by the noise and chaos of high-speed aircraft.

“It sounds like an episode of MASH down there,” he remarked, emphasizing the surreal nature of the situation.

A Deadly Incident and Community Outcry

Residents’ concerns escalated after a tragic crash on July 4, which claimed the life of pilot Edan Shalev when his Game Composites GB1 Gamebird, likened to a “racing car for the sky,” nosedived into the reservoir.

Witnessing the horrific scene, Kevin Nettleton, who rushed to help, described it as reminiscent of “Mad Max.”

Recovery efforts faced challenges from a Black Hawk helicopter that landed nearby, stirring up chaos instead of aiding the situation.

“I know he was trying to help, but it was hell. I’m still shaken up over it,” Nettleton shared, highlighting the chaos that followed the tragedy.

Ongoing Risks and Environmental Concerns

The community has seen other deadly incidents, including a Cessna crash in March 2016 that orphaned children when parents David and Jessica Anderson lost their lives.

Besides the immediate danger, residents are increasingly worried about the impact of jet fuel pollution in the air and potential contamination of the Palisades Reservoir.

The airstrip, while open to the public, is regulated by the Alpine Airpark executive board, which decides who can fly in and out.

Calls for Change and Accountability

In response to growing concerns, residents have formally complained to the airpark board, referencing guidelines that are supposed to govern air traffic.

Raj Narayanan, president of the airpark board, asserted that the responsibility for accidents like the July 4 crash lies beyond their jurisdiction.

He emphasized the need for established procedures and guidelines for pilots, aiming to foster better relationships with the local community.

Alpine Mayor Eric Green echoed this sentiment, noting that the airpark exists within the broader Alpine ecosystem but operates independently from the town’s governance.

“There are a few people who don’t abide by the rules, and that’s what causes the consternation,” he explained, highlighting the challenges of regulating air traffic in a community that was once peaceful and quiet.

As the debate continues, residents remain anxious about what the future holds for their beloved town.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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