FAA ‘permanently restricting’ Washington helicopter traffic after fatal DC midair collision

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced on Friday that it is implementing new safety measures near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) following a tragic midair collision on Jan. 29 that resulted in the deaths of 67 individuals. The collision involved a commercial plane and an Army Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recommended the closure of a helicopter route near DCA, citing it as a significant risk to aviation safety. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy emphasized that the location of helicopter Route 4 posed a serious threat by increasing the likelihood of midair collisions.

In response to the NTSB’s recommendation, the FAA has decided to permanently restrict non-essential helicopter operations around DCA and eliminate mixed traffic of helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. Additionally, Route 4 between Hains Point and the Wilson Bridge will be permanently closed, with alternative helicopter routes being evaluated as suggested by the NTSB.

Furthermore, the FAA will enforce specific distances between helicopters on urgent missions, such as medical emergencies or law enforcement activities, and airplanes flying near DCA. The simultaneous use of certain runways will also be prohibited when helicopters conducting urgent missions are in the vicinity.

The investigation into the Jan. 29 crash revealed potential errors that may have contributed to the tragedy, including the helicopter crew’s lack of awareness of their altitude and failure to receive critical messages from air traffic control. The use of visual separation by the military was also called into question as a possible factor in the collision.

The FAA’s decision to limit visual separation to specific helicopter operations outside restricted airspace aims to enhance safety measures and prevent similar incidents in the future. Despite the Army’s assertion that the Black Hawk crew was experienced and familiar with the airspace around DCA, the FAA is taking proactive steps to address the concerns raised by the NTSB.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed his dismay over the flow of helicopters near the airport and questioned how the FAA was unaware of the potential risks. The temporary ban on helicopters near DCA will remain in place as the FAA continues to implement the new safety measures.

In conclusion, the FAA’s commitment to improving safety near DCA underscores the importance of prioritizing aviation safety and preventing tragic incidents like the Jan. 29 collision. By implementing these new guidelines, the FAA is taking proactive steps to protect the lives of passengers and crew members flying in and out of Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.