Thu Apr 10 20:06:29 UTC 2025: ## Near-Miss at Reagan National Airport Involves Congressional Members

**Arlington, VA –** A wingtip collision between two American Airlines planes at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) on Thursday afternoon sent shockwaves through the already scrutinized airport. At least three members of Congress were aboard one of the aircraft involved.

American Airlines Flight 4522, an Embraer E175 bound for New York’s JFK airport, was struck by the wingtip of American Airlines Flight 5490, a Bombardier CRJ 900 en route to Charleston, South Carolina, while taxiing. Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), who was on Flight 4522, confirmed the incident on social media, stating that another plane struck their wing while waiting for takeoff. He also expressed concern over recent FAA budget cuts.

No injuries were reported, and both planes, carrying a total of 147 passengers and eight crew members, were taken out of service for inspection. Damage was limited to wingtips. Passengers will continue their journeys on replacement aircraft.

The incident further intensifies scrutiny of DCA’s air traffic control, particularly given its single, heavily used runway. The FAA is investigating the collision. This latest incident follows a series of near-misses and incidents at the airport, including a fatal January 29th collision between an American Airlines jet and a US Army helicopter that resulted in 67 deaths and prompted the FAA to implement permanent helicopter traffic restrictions.

Recent concerns have also arisen from thousands of reports of helicopters operating dangerously close to airplanes near Reagan, leading to pressure on the FAA from Senators last month. In response to the January incident, the FAA has installed a new management team for air traffic control at DCA, increased operational supervisor staffing, and is considering slowing flight arrivals. A near-miss involving a Delta Air Lines plane and Air Force jets last month and a recent fight in the air traffic control tower further highlight the ongoing safety concerns at the airport.

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