Army Pauses Helicopter Flights After Safety Concerns at D.C. Airport
The Army has temporarily suspended helicopter flights near Reagan National Airport due to safety incidents involving commercial airliners.
Summary
The Army has halted helicopter operations near Washington's Reagan National Airport after two commercial planes had to abort landings to avoid an Army Black Hawk helicopter. The decision follows a recent midair crash that killed 67 people in January, prompting concerns over aviation safety in the region. Investigations are ongoing by both the NTSB and FAA, which previously restricted helicopter flights around the area. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy criticized the incidents, calling for stricter adherence to safety regulations.
Articles (4)
- The Army has halted helicopter operations near Reagan National Airport following incidents requiring commercial planes to abort landings amidst military air traffic.
- Incidents involving military helicopters have raised significant safety concerns, especially after a fatal collision earlier this year that resulted in 67 casualties.
- Investigations by the FAA and NTSB are ongoing to address recurring safety issues and to examine protocols under which military flights operate.
Military Times·1M· "…Helicopter traffic remains a concern around that busy airport."
Associated Press·1M· "…The pause comes after 67 people died in January when a passenger jet collided in midair with a Black Hawk helicopter at Reagan airport."