ARLINGTON, Va. (7News) — Following a midair collision in January near Reagan National Airport that killed 67 people, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has implemented new helicopter rules at DCA, Dulles, and BWI Marshall airports.
The FAA announced revisions to existing regulations for helicopter flights, making permanent changes initially instituted after the collision. Enhanced safety measures also affect routes near BWI Marshall and Dulles airports.
At BWI, Route 12 for helicopters has been moved to the northwest side of I-95 to improve separation from planes. Meanwhile, at Dulles, helicopters on Route 7 must now fly at a minimum altitude of 2,000 feet, 500 feet higher than before, when crossing three of the airport’s four runways. These adjustments are intended to minimize risks to aircraft performing go-arounds.
Authorities noted that the FAA’s review of safety protocols extends beyond the DC area, with similar restrictions implemented at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas earlier this year due to concerns over potential collisions.
The FAA is committed to ongoing improvements in helicopter and airplane safety, with further changes anticipated in the future.