The Army has announced the suspension of helicopter flights into the Pentagon following an incident involving a military helicopter flying near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. This incident led air traffic controllers to divert two commercial flights attempting to land.
The suspension affects helicopter operations out of the 12th Aviation Battalion, responsible for evacuating political VIPs during emergencies. Lt. Col. Patrick Husted, spokesperson for the unit overseeing Army operations in the nation’s capital, confirmed the suspension pending an internal inquiry.
Safety Concerns and Response
An Army helicopter, identified as a Black Hawk, deviated from its designated flight path around the Pentagon, causing air traffic controllers at Reagan National to instruct passenger planes to abort their landings. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed strong disapproval of the incident, calling the flight ‘unacceptable’ and demanding explanations from the Defense Department.
Following the January crash near the airport, under investigation by the NTSB, DOT has taken measures to close certain helicopter flight routes in the vicinity. Managers in the airport’s control tower have also been reassigned to address safety concerns.
Legislative Response
The incident has drawn bipartisan criticism from lawmakers investigating the crash and other incidents at the airport. Senate Commerce Chair Ted Cruz condemned the Army’s actions, vowing to introduce legislation to safeguard travelers at Reagan National.
While the Army stated that the flight adhered to FAA flight routes, questions remain about the events leading to the diversion of the helicopter over the Pentagon. Capt. Victoria Goldfedib, U.S. Army spokesperson, emphasized the Army’s commitment to aviation safety and adherence to approved guidelines.
As investigations continue, the Army has halted Pentagon flights to ensure compliance with safety protocols and airspace regulations.
