FAA Reduces Ronald Reagan Airport Arrivals After Fatal Collision

In response to a tragic mid-air collision that killed 67 people, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has decided to reduce the number of flights arriving at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport from 28 to 26 per hour. This decision aims to enhance safety by allowing greater separation between aircraft, although it is expected to increase average delays for travelers from 40 to 50 minutes. The accident involved an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, prompting a review of air traffic procedures. Restrictions on helicopter flights around the airport have also been implemented, and two runways remain closed as recovery efforts continue. The FAA is under scrutiny as investigations reveal that air traffic controller staffing levels were suboptimal at the time of the incident. Lawmakers, including Senate Commerce Committee Chair Ted Cruz, have called for further reviews of other airports with similar air traffic dynamics.