After deadly midair collision over Potomac, NTSB wants helicopter ban near D.C.'s Reagan Airport
NBCMAR 12
US Regulatory Agency Seeks Helicopter Ban Near Reagan Airport
Above: An American Eagle plane lands at Ronald Reagan National Airport on Feb. 6, 2025. Image copyright: Al Drago/Stringer/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
The existing separation distance between planes and helicopters at Reagan National Airport is dangerously inadequate. To reduce the risk of fatal incidents, the federal government, led by the Trump administration, must find a permanent solution for alternate routes farther away from the airport for helicopter traffic. It shouldn't take a tragedy like Jan. 29 to require immediate action.
Democratic narrative
The proposed restrictions could significantly impact essential government operations, law enforcement, and military flights. Before considering alternative routes, the federal government must investigate multiple factors — including human error — that can cause a collision like Jan. 29's. The current system is incredibly safe to fly and has worked successfully for decades.