Politico
• Oriana Pawlyk
Air traffic controller charged after scuffle at Reagan National tower
Politico reports: Controllers at the airport's tower are still reeling from the midair disaster that killed 67 people in January.
Air Traffic Control News
Politico
• Oriana Pawlyk
Air Traffic Control News Timeline
United Airlines Flight 654 was struck by a kite while approaching Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Local police intervened, confiscating the kite as flying in the area is restricted due to low-flying aircraft. The flight landed without incident, and no injuries were reported.
With only 10,800 certified controllers, the U.S. grapples with a severe shortage, needing over 14,000 to maintain optimal operations, affecting the efficiency and safety of national air traffic management.
The FAA is investigating a near collision between a Delta Airbus A319 and a USAF T-38 over Reagan National Airport. The incident spotlighted ongoing challenges in managing military-civilian airspace, highlighting the efficacy of TCAS systems and the need for improved coordination.
London Gatwick is enhancing operational efficiency by implementing NATS' intelligent time-based arrival separation system on its single mixed-mode runway. This system adjusts approach spacing dynamically to sustain arrival rates, particularly under challenging conditions like strong headwinds.
Following a Senate hearing, the FAA has mandated that all aircraft at Reagan National Airport must activate ADS-B to enhance safety. This decision follows a midair collision where tracking technology was reportedly disabled, prompting lawmakers to question risk analysis and safety measures.
The FAA plans significant hiring of air traffic controller trainees to address staffing needs, while maintaining rigorous oversight of Boeing's operations, as discussed in a recent testimony to a U.S. Senate panel. The agency's efforts are key to ensuring safety and efficiency in U.S. airspace.
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