FAA restricts helicopter flights near Washington National Airport

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is taking action after a tragic midair collision in January. An Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines regional jet collided near Washington, D.C., leading to recommendations for stricter airspace rules. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has suggested the FAA should permanently limit helicopter flights around Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). The FAA has agreed to this recommendation. Experts are concerned about mixed-use airspace, where different types of aircraft, like commercial jets and helicopters, can fly close to each other. This situation is common throughout the U.S., but many agree that following the DCA collision, more examination is necessary. The NTSB reported about 15,000 close calls between commercial jets and helicopters in the D.C. area recently. Despite these incidents, experts say that the current system is generally safe. The FAA is examining other areas with high volumes of mixed traffic. They are assessing several major cities, including Boston, New York, and Los Angeles, for possible further restrictions. Some advocates are worried that the FAA may be slow to act, despite having access to significant data on near-misses. Flying in mixed-use airspace remains very safe, according to experts. While additional regulations could be proposed after the NTSB investigation wraps up, many believe the existing air traffic control system effectively keeps aircraft apart. FAA officials say they are committed to making safety improvements proactively in the future.