Staffing at Washington National Airport air control tower was ‘not normal' on night of collision: FAA report
SUMMARY
A preliminary FAA report revealed that staffing levels at the air control tower at Ronald Reagan National Airport were "not normal" on the night of a deadly collision between an American Airlines plane and an Army Black Hawk helicopter. One controller was handling both helicopter and runway operations—typically assigned to two separate controllers. The collision, which occurred Wednesday night near Washington, D.C., resulted in the presumed deaths of all 67 onboard. The FAA has long struggled with air traffic controller shortages, with Reagan National operating at 19 certified controllers instead of the recommended 30. Experts, including Frontier Airlines CEO Barry Biffle, warn that understaffing contributes to delays, cancellations, and safety risks. A 2023 FAA safety review found that staffing shortages, outdated technology, and insufficient funding are eroding safety margins. The agency has been urged to address these issues urgently to prevent further incidents.
