Pentagon airspace tension mounts as helicopter flights halted
The US Army has once again suspended helicopter flights in the area around the Pentagon after two civilian flights were forced to change course near Reagan Airport outside Washington, D.C. The US Secretary of State for Transport, Sean Duffy, responded to the decision.
What do you need to know?
- Flight suspension: The US Army decided to suspend helicopter flights around the Pentagon again after two civilian aeroplanes had to change course near Reagan Airport.
- Reason for the decision: The decision followed an incident on Thursday when a military helicopter forced two passenger planes to change course.
- Minister’s reaction: Transport Secretary Sean Duffy called for an end to flights in the crowded airspace, emphasising that safety must be a priority.
Why were helicopter flights suspended?
The US Army decided to pause helicopter flights around the Pentagon following an incident near Reagan Airport. Two civilian aeroplanes were compelled to change course, raising concerns about safety in the crowded airspace. Helicopter flights had previously been reinstated following a crash involving a military helicopter and a passenger plane that occurred in January.
What were the reactions to the incident?
Transport Secretary Sean Duffy expressed his dissatisfaction with the situation, urging the Pentagon to cease flights in the crowded airspace. He stressed that safety must always come first. Duffy recalled the January crash, where 67 people died, and suggested that VIPs should use alternative means of transport, such as taxis or limousines.
What’s next for flights around the Pentagon?
The decision to suspend helicopter flights around the Pentagon remains in effect until the latest incident is clarified. The Pentagon is located near Reagan Airport, making the airspace particularly crowded. Authorities must now find a way to ensure safety for both military and civilian flights.
