By Alison Sider
The U.S. will restrict helicopter traffic around Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport after this week's midair collision between a helicopter and a regional jet, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said.
The new restrictions will bar helicopter flights in areas over the Potomac River and over the top of the airport. There are exceptions for lifesaving medical support, active law enforcement, active air defense, or presidential transport helicopter missions that must operate in the restricted area.
Pilots have raised concerns about helicopter traffic in crowded, complex airspace.
The limits will remain in place until the National Transportation Safety Board completes its preliminary investigation into this week's collision, and will be reviewed based on the NTSB's report.
"Today's decision will immediately help secure the airspace near Reagan Airport, ensuring the safety of airplane and helicopter traffic," Duffy said.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom in a statement thanked the Trump Administration for its "quick decisive action."
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(END) Dow Jones Newswires
January 31, 2025 15:58 ET (20:58 GMT)
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