The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating why a commercial airplane was cleared for takeoff as President Donald Trump's helicopter, Marine One, approached Reagan National Airport on Tuesday. The incident is being examined for potential violations of safety procedures established after a deadly midair collision last year.
The routine flight carrying the president from the White House to Andrews Air Force Base occurred simultaneously with the commercial jet's departure. According to the FAA, the aircraft experienced a "momentary loss of separation" as the plane climbed while Marine One approached, though they were not on a collision course.
"The air traffic controller was in contact with both the commercial pilot and Marine One pilot during the loss of separation," the FAA stated. The White House asserted that President Trump was never in danger, with spokesman Kush Desai emphasizing the competence of Marine One pilots. A Marine Corps spokesman also stated that the helicopter crew was not delayed or asked to alter their flight path, and that air traffic control approved their route and provided timely information.
The FAA implemented stricter rules around Reagan National Airport following a January 2025 crash that killed 67 people when an airliner collided with an Army Black Hawk helicopter. These measures include halting all takeoffs and landings when a helicopter is near the airport and prohibit air traffic controllers from relying solely on visual separation. Military aircraft are also required to broadcast their locations.
Family members of the victims from last year's crash have publicly questioned the adequacy of current safety measures in the congested airspace around Reagan National Airport and urged Congress to pass recommended aviation safety reforms. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) indicated it is still gathering information on the recent incident and has not yet decided whether to launch its own investigation.