DC Crash Highlights Chronic Air Traffic Control Staffing Crisis
A mid-air collision between a military helicopter and a passenger plane in Washington, D.C., resulted in 67 fatalities. The incident occurred during a period of acknowledged “not normal” air traffic control staffing at Reagan National Airport, with reports indicating understaffing at the tower. Investigations are underway, examining potential factors such as the helicopter’s flight path, altitude (at the flight ceiling for the area), and the timing of the mission within busy airspace. Secretary Duffy also highlighted a chronic national shortage of air traffic controllers contributing to the situation.
John Q. Hosedrinker