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In a significant move following a tragic incident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced new restrictions on helicopter operations surrounding Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. This decision comes after a deadly collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines jetliner earlier this week, which resulted in the loss of numerous lives.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized the necessity of this action, stating, “Today’s decision will immediately help secure the airspace near Reagan Airport, ensuring the safety of airplane and helicopter traffic.” He added that ensuring safety in the aviation sector is crucial for public trust, remarking that this initiative is a major step towards restoring confidence among the American public.
The newly designated restricted airspace will encompass areas from Memorial Bridge to the South Capitol Street Bridge, with the exception of the Tidal Basin, and will include the space from Haines Point to Wilson Bridge, as well as the airspace directly above the airport, according to Duffy’s statements.
During a briefing, National Transportation Safety Board member Todd Inman explained how helicopters operate within defined zones in the Washington area, referring to them as “tracks.” He noted that the helicopter involved was moving from one designated track to another, highlighting the systematic nature of helicopter flight in the region, which is commonly observed by residents.
The collision occurred just moments before American Eagle Flight 5342 was scheduled to land at Reagan National, leading to the tragic deaths of all 64 passengers and crew on the flight, along with the three individuals in the helicopter. This incident marks a somber moment for aviation safety, being the first commercial airline crash in the U.S. resulting in fatalities in over 15 years, and the deadliest since 2001.
As investigations are underway, authorities are examining critical factors such as the aircraft’s altitude, the roles of personnel involved, and the communications between air traffic controllers and the flight crews. Notably, American Airlines Flight 5342, a CRJ700 coming from Wichita, Kansas, was reportedly at an altitude of approximately 300 feet when the collision took place.
According to FAA regulations, helicopters are required to maintain a maximum altitude of 200 feet when operating near the airport. This regulation is particularly important due to the frequent helicopter traffic between military sites, including the Pentagon, and other key locations in the D.C. area.
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Read more about the American Airlines plane collision with an Army helicopter
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www.cnbc.com