General Electric Pulls Back from Boston Helipad

General Electric has backed off its need for a state-built, public-use helipad near its new Boston headquarters, telling city and state officials that operating its helicopter from Signature Flight Support at Boston Logan International Airport “has been positive.” But the company also told officials, “We agree with the city and state that a helipad should be part of the overall transportation strategy for Boston.”

Boston and state officials revived the idea of a downtown helipad as part of the $120 million incentive package that led to GE selecting Boston as its new world headquarters. The city’s last two public helipads closed in 1999 to make way for the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. Plans to construct a new one fizzled in 2008 amid strong local opposition.

Because of interest by other area-based companies, plans for the helipad are reportedly continuing, but its priority level has taken a hit with the lack of urgency from GE officials. A task force was established in January to collect information and make final recommendations. The group consists of elected public officials representing businesses and residents, as well as representatives of local helicopter operators and the New England Helicopter Council.