The chaotic, occasionally deadly air cor ridor over the Hudson River got some desperately needed law and order this week: New federal regulations on aircraft speed, elevation and safety precautions went into effect.
A host of city officials (plus The Post) had called for the rules after an August mid-air collision between a small private plane and a sightseeing helicopter killed nine people.
Truth be told, we’re a bit surprised that the Federal Aviation Administration, which governs the corridor, acted so soon — given its see-no-evil track record.
The agency has been better known recently for trying to cover up data on plane-crippling bird strikes and ignoring airline warning signs ahead of a crash in Buffalo in February that killed 49.
But this time, its rules seem comprehensive and wise.
For the first time, low-flying air traffic is being segregated by elevation: Airspace between 1,000 and 1,300 feet is reserved for aircraft passing through the corridor, while heights below 1,000 feet are reserved for sightseeing.
Pilots must also:
* Obey a speed limit of 140 knots.
* Announce their presence on a common radio frequency.
* Install and operate anti-collision devices.
* Stay in lanes on opposite sides of the river, depending on the direction of the flight.
To be sure, the new rules now need to be enforced — especially since craft flying below 1,300 feet still aren’t required to speak to air-traffic controllers.
Still, it appears that air travel in New York City is much safer than it was just three months ago.