In response to the deadly mid-air collision in January that killed 67 people, the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) has revised air traffic control tower staffing at Reagan National Airport (DCA). According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, the FAA is tightening staffing rules and specifically looking into the number of people inside the control tower at certain times.
At the time of the crash, there was only one person in the tower controlling both planes and helicopters. The FAA now wants a dedicated controller overseeing helicopter traffic consistently at the airport. Additionally, a high-level supervisor must now approve any combining of positions in the control tower.
Retired American Airlines pilot and aviation expert Richard Levy supports the FAA’s decision to separate helicopter traffic from control of take-offs and landings at DCA for safety reasons. Since the crash, the FAA has banned most helicopters from flying near the airport, except for limited exceptions. This restriction, initially temporary, is under review and could become permanent pending approval from other federal agencies.
The FAA’s actions are aimed at enhancing safety measures at DCA and preventing future tragedies. While these changes may inconvenience some government agencies and helicopter operators, the primary focus remains on maintaining the highest level of safety and efficiency in air traffic control operations.
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