Reagan National To Remain Off-Limits to GA

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) will remain off-limits to all forms of general aviation for the foreseeable future. This despite massive lobbying efforts by the General Aviation Coalition and others. A government plan to reopen DCA to some GA operators had reportedly incorporated elements of the NBAA’s proposed security letter of authorization (SLOA). But at a TSA briefing last month, authorities said credible threats led them to decide it was not prudent to open the airport to general aviation at this time. According to NBAA president Jack Olcott, it remains Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta’s goal to open DCA for general aviation. However, said Olcott, “…it would be unrealistic to suggest a time frame at this juncture.” Nevertheless, GA leaders believe new TSA head Admiral James Loy will be more sympathetic to the requirements of general aviation operations.