Helicopters Continue Sweep of Upcountry Maui

Green Harvest. Maui Now graphic.

Upcountry residents have contacted Maui Now about “low-flying helicopters sweeping the area” on Wednesday and Thursday, June 22 and 23.

Maui County Communications Director Rod Antone has confirmed that these helicopters are part of the Maui Police Department’s marijuana eradication program, also known as Green Harvest.

“These helicopters are flying at approved heights according to FAA regulations,” said Antone.

According to FAA regulations, helicopters can fly at an altitude of 1,000 feet above congested areas and 500 feet above open water or sparsely populated areas, so long as they are not causing “hazards to persons or property on the surface,” and provided they are “in compliance with any routes or altitudes specifically prescribed for helicopters by the FAA.”

Antone said Upcountry residents should direct complaints about this week’s helicopter operations to the MPD Vice Division at 244-6455.

Maui Now has requested more information, and will provide updates as they become available.