Airplane Noise

Although Interior Secretary Donald P. Hodel is correct in recognizing the needs of those who enjoy viewing the Grand Canyon from the sky, he ignores the fact that daily overflights completely usurp the rights of those who wish to experience only natural sounds and sights in this wondrous setting.

Based on the use figures presented in your article (May 24), if each year 450,000 people fly over the Grand Canyon and 335,000 persons venture into the canyon, a solution that would satisfy all parties would allow overflights four days per week only.

In fact, I wish the same could be done for the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Except for the often incessant drone of single-engine planes (and the occasional thunderous helicopter), our nearest wilderness is quite natural, and especially relaxing when quiet.

STEVEN HARTMAN

Sherman Oaks