The U.S. Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration (DOE/NNSA) will conduct low-altitude helicopter flights over New Orleans and its surrounding areas, Sunday, February 2, through Thursday, February 6, ahead of the Super Bowl on February 9.
National Nuclear Security Administration
January 31, 2025
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NEW ORLEANS – The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (DOE/NNSA) will conduct low-altitude helicopter flights over New Orleans and its surrounding areas, Sunday, February 2, through Thursday, February 6, ahead of the Super Bowl on February 9.
NNSA’s Nuclear Emergency Support Team (NEST) Aerial Measuring System aircraft will measure expected background radiation as part of standard preparations to protect public health and safety during the event.
The public may see a Leonardo AW-139 helicopter, which is equipped with radiation sensing technology. The helicopter will fly at relatively low levels, and flyovers will only occur during daylight hours.
These aerial radiation assessment surveys are a normal and routine part of security and emergency preparedness activities. AMS conducted nearly 1,000 flight hours on these surveys in 2024, and has safely performed this mission for over 65 years.
NNSA is making the public aware of the upcoming flights so citizens who see the low-flying aircraft are not alarmed.
For more information and video footage of NNSA’s Aerial Measuring System, click here.
NEST is an element of the Nation’s nuclear and radiological emergency response capability.
