U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono says the U.S. Air Force has abandoned plans for a low-altitude training route over the Big Island.

The C-17 cargo jets that would have used the route were expected to travel over the communities of Honokaa and Waimea, raising concerns about noise and pollution.

Hirono says the Air Force decided it could satisfy its training needs without the proposed training route.

The island Democrat says the decision by Air Force officials shows their willingness to be sensitive to the community's needs.

Dozens of Big Island residents opposed to the plan turned up at a Hawaii County Council committee meeting Monday to voice their concerns.