New FAA Rules for Marine One Disrupt Reagan National Flights
Safety measures implemented after a deadly collision force flight delays and diversions during President Trump's helicopter movements.
- The FAA now mandates airspace closures at Reagan National Airport when Marine One is in operation, causing significant disruptions.
- These measures follow a January collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines jet that killed 67 people.
- The new rules require stricter radar separation standards, replacing the previous visual separation protocols for aircraft near helicopters.
- On February 14, 30 flights were delayed and nine were diverted as President Trump departed for Florida, highlighting the operational impact.
- Airlines, including American Airlines, are advising pilots to carry extra fuel to manage delays, while passengers report confusion and missed connections.