Additional Coverage:
- Staffing at Reagan Washington National Airport air control tower was ‘not normal’ on night of collision: FAA (foxnews.com)
Arlington, VA – A preliminary report from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) suggests unusual staffing levels at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) air traffic control tower during Wednesday’s fatal mid-air collision. The crash, involving an American Airlines plane and an Army helicopter, claimed the lives of all 67 people on board.
The report indicates a single air traffic controller was managing two positions typically handled by separate individuals. While a source claims overall staffing was normal, the report notes the setup was not standard for the traffic volume at that time.
This raises questions about air traffic control procedures at DCA, which has long faced staffing challenges. The airport currently has 19 fully certified controllers, significantly below the target of 30.
The FAA has yet to comment on the report. However, the incident highlights ongoing concerns about air traffic controller shortages nationwide. These shortages, coupled with outdated technology and budget constraints, have been cited as contributing factors to safety concerns within the national airspace system.
Last year, Frontier Airlines CEO Barry Biffle warned about the potential for increased delays and cancellations due to these shortages, particularly during peak travel seasons. He advocated for both increased staffing and technological advancements to improve efficiency and safety.
A recent FAA safety review echoed these concerns, calling the current safety level “unsustainable.” The review pointed to a combination of staffing shortages, funding issues, and technological limitations as contributing to a decline in safety margins. The controller shortage has been linked to high turnover, tight budgets, and controllers working excessive hours.