FAA Restricts Helicopters, Powered Lift Aircraft Around Washington National

Interim rule implementing NTSB recommendations for the airspace will go into effect on Friday.

Zach Vasile

Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 05:15 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Black Hawk helicopter over Washington [Credit: U.S. Air Force/Nicholas A. Priest]

Key Takeaways:

Following a fatal midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (KDCA) last year, the FAA is implementing permanent restrictions on helicopters and powered lift aircraft in the area.
An interim final rule will specifically prohibit helicopter operations when runways 15 and 33 are in use, based on recommendations from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
These new regulations, along with previously adopted safety measures, aim to enhance air traffic safety over the nation's capital and prevent future tragedies.

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Close to one year after a fatal midair collision between an American Airlines jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter in Washington, D.C., the federal government is moving to permanently restrict certain aircraft types from operating around Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (KDCA).

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced Thursday that the FAA is formalizing restrictions for helicopters and powered lift aircraft in certain areas near Washington National unless they are conducting essential operations.