Virginia and Maryland Senators Oppose FAA Plan to Expand Long-Haul Flights at Reagan National Airport

The proposed addition of long-distance flight slots at Reagan National has sparked safety and congestion concerns among local senators, citing recent near misses and existing airport strain.

• Senators from Virginia and Maryland criticize a FAA reauthorization bill that includes a provision for additional long-haul flights at Reagan National Airport, emphasizing safety risks.
• The provision, part of ongoing negotiations in Congress, would add 10 new long-distance slots to the airport, potentially increasing congestion.
• Local senators argue that the airport, already near capacity, cannot safely accommodate the proposed increase in traffic.
• Recent near misses at Reagan National are highlighted as evidence of the potential dangers of increasing flight operations.
• The opposition from local senators is steadfast, despite some lawmakers' preference for more convenient travel options from the capital.

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