Homeland Security: Protecting Airspace in the National Capital Region (CRS Report for Congress)
| Release Date |
Sept. 1, 2005 |
| Report Number |
RS22234 |
| Report Type |
Report |
| Authors |
Bart Elias, Resources, Science, and Industry Division |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
Summary:
Since September 11, 2001, several actions have been taken to monitor and protect the airspace
around Washington, DC. However, many general aviation (GA) interests have protested that
extensive airspace restrictions and complex procedures exceed what is necessary to protect critical
assets from possible terrorist attacks using aircraft. Policymakers have struggled to address airspace
protection needs without unduly impeding air commerce or compromising safety. While the
administration is currently seeking to make the airspace restrictions in the National Capital Region
permanent, Congress has pushed for an easing of restrictions on GA aircraft at Ronald Reagan
Washington National Airport (DCA) and nearby GA airports through legislation and oversight.
However, a few high profile airspace breaches have prompted some in Congress to seek stiffer
penalties for violators and mandatory training for pilots (see H.R. 3465 ). Better pilot
training and technologies to improve pilot situational awareness may help curtail inadvertent airspace
violations that complicate surveillance and protection efforts. Further assessment of airspace design
and special flight procedures around Washington, DC, may be undertaken to determine whether an
appropriate balance exists between homeland security and defense requirements and air commerce
and safety. This report will be updated as needed.
