I Flew DC Airspace Often, The Controllers Are Great

As Trump plays expert, let the real experts get the facts (Plus a RFK Jr. Bonus)

Flying into Washington, D.C., is an experience unlike any other. During my time in Congress, I commuted weekly from my home in Illinois to D.C., flying into Maryland’s 2W5 airport. For me, it was about the most therapeutic experience to either prepare for a busy week, or decompress from one. I loved it, but it certainly was work. I’ve seen firsthand just how busy and complex the airspace around our nation’s capital can be. Yet, despite the constant flow of commercial, general aviation, and military aircraft, the system works remarkably well due to the professionalism of air traffic controllers and the strict rules governing flight operations.

The airspace around Washington, D.C., is some of the most tightly controlled in the world. In fact, it’s unique in US airspace. The Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA) and Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ) create layers of security to prevent unauthorized aircraft from entering sensitive areas. Pilots operating within these zones must follow precise procedures, file flight plans, and communicate closely with air traffic control. These measures are essential, given the high stakes of securing our government’s airspace while still allowing aviation to function smoothly.

One of the more unique aspects of D.C. airspace is its dedicated helicopter routes. If you’ve ever spent time in the city, you’ve undoubtedly noticed the constant presence of helicopters—whether they’re transporting government officials, law enforcement conducting operations, medical flights rushing to a hospital, or military training. I’ve ridden with the Air Force through these corridors (as a Congressman):

These helicopter routes are tightly regulated and designed to keep rotary-wing aircraft safely separated from fixed-wing traffic. It’s a carefully choreographed system that keeps the city moving while ensuring safety remains the top priority.

Despite the complexity, aviation remains one of the safest modes of transportation. The layers of regulation, technology, and training make air travel extraordinarily reliable. But when an accident does happen, it feels disproportionately shocking. The crash at DCA involving a CRJ 700 and a Blackhawk helicopter is a stark reminder of how rare yet devastating such incidents can be. Investigators are still working to determine the cause, but it’s crucial that we allow the professionals to do their jobs before jumping to conclusions.

Unfortunately, former President Donald Trump has already begun making accusations about fault, well before any official findings have been released. In fact, his narratives have vacillated between insane Grandpa, and 4 year old. Take for instance, his Truth social statement the night of the accident:

Honest to God, it sounds like a grade schooler is asking questions (sorry to grade schoolers…we love ya)

This kind of knee-jerk reaction does nothing to help the victims' families or improve aviation safety. Presidents should set an example by waiting for the facts before making statements that could mislead the public or politicize a tragedy. The aviation community and the investigators deserve the time and space to conduct a thorough and fair inquiry. Not the assumption that it was DEI simply because your base hopes it was.

I have an immense appreciation for the people who make our airspace function—controllers, pilots, safety regulators, and first responders. The system works because of their dedication. Whether it’s managing the busy skies of Washington, D.C., or ensuring that a pilot like me could safely commute every week, their work keeps America flying. And for that, we should all be grateful.

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Politics Corner:

This week, Country First (www.country1st.com) launched a video about RFK Jr. Take a look: