Welcome to DU!
The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards.
Join the community:
Create a free account
Support DU (and get rid of ads!):
Become a Star Member
Latest Breaking News
General Discussion
The DU Lounge
All Forums
Issue Forums
Culture Forums
Alliance Forums
Region Forums
Support Forums
Help & Search
Official: Air Force OKs F-35 fighter at city airport in Vt.
http://hamptonroads.com/2013/12/official-air-force-oks-f35-fighter-city-airport-vt
Official: Air Force OKs F-35 fighter at city airport in Vt.
By Wilson Ring
The Associated Press
© December 4, 2013
BURLINGTON, Vt.
The U.S. Air Force is expected to announce Tuesday that it has approved a plan to base its new F-35 fighter plane at Burlington International Airport despite complaints that the planes would be too noisy and pose a risk to the community, an official with knowledge of the decision said.
~snip~
The decision follows a lengthy and heated debate in Vermont over the plane, which is designed to replace the aging F-16. Up to 24 of the warplanes will be based at the airport.
Opponents worried about noise, possible accidents and whether the city of Burlington, which owns the airport, could be liable in the event of a crash.
The Guard said the planes could be flown in a way that would minimize noise. Supporters argued the planes would help ensure about 1,100 well-paying National Guard jobs.
