NTSB Urges FAA Action After Helicopter Collision

Following a deadly midair collision near Ronald Reagan National Airport that killed 67 people, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has urgently recommended the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) permanently ban helicopter operations near the airport when runways 15 and 33 are in use. The collision involved an American Airlines jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, highlighting the insufficient separation distances between aircraft and helicopters, which pose an 'intolerable risk' to aviation safety. The NTSB identified 15,214 instances of planes receiving proximity alerts about helicopters, indicating a persistent safety concern. Interim restrictions on helicopter flights have been temporarily implemented until March 21, but the NTSB stresses the need for immediate, long-term solutions, including designated alternative routes for helicopters. While the NTSB can only make recommendations, the FAA is responsible for implementing these safety measures. The investigation into the exact cause of the crash remains ongoing, with potential issues including inaccurate altitude readings and communication failures.