Two Delta Flights Abort Landing at Washington DCA
FAA Investigates Delta Air Lines Go-Arounds at DCA Due to Military Helicopter
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into two Delta Air Lines flights that were forced to abort landings at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) on May 1, 2025. This incident underscores growing safety concerns surrounding aircraft operations at the busy terminal, particularly in light of air traffic interference from military helicopters headed to the Pentagon.
Delta Flight 1671, an Airbus A319 arriving from Orlando International Airport (MCO), and Republic Airways Flight 5825, an Embraer 170 arriving from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), were both instructed to perform go-arounds around 2:30 p.m. due to a military helicopter entering the airspace.
Delta Flights Abort Landings at DCA: A Closer Look
The recent go-arounds at DCA highlight the complexities of managing air traffic in a high-density airport environment. Air traffic controllers directed both flights to abort their landings due to a military helicopter’s presence, which posed a potential hazard as it approached the airport.
Delta Air Lines confirmed to Reuters that Flight 1671 was carrying 97 passengers and five crew members. A spokesperson stated, “Nothing is more important at Delta than the safety of our customers and people. We’ll cooperate with the FAA as they investigate.” Meanwhile, Republic Airways, operating as a Delta Connection partner, has yet to issue a formal comment regarding the incident.
New Helicopter Restrictions at DCA
This incident follows significant operational changes for helicopters near Reagan National Airport. In March, the FAA permanently closed a major flight route and prohibited the use of two smaller runways whenever helicopters on urgent missions operate in the vicinity.
These restrictions were enacted after a tragic mid-air collision between an American Airlines regional jet and an Army helicopter on January 29, which resulted in 67 fatalities. According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), there have been 85 recorded near-miss incidents involving helicopters and planes since 2021, defined by minimal lateral and vertical separations.
Industry Response to Safety Concerns
In light of these recent events, Airlines for America, which represents major U.S. carriers, has urged the FAA to permanently limit helicopter traffic near Reagan National Airport. They have recommended suspending certain helicopter routes, with exceptions only for critical military operations or medical emergencies.
This recent incident adds to a series of ongoing safety concerns at Reagan National, including a prior occurrence on March 28 involving another Delta flight and Air Force jets. The airport’s close proximity to significant government sites, including the Capitol, complicates air traffic management between commercial flights and essential government operations.
The FAA is expanding its investigation to evaluate helicopter traffic patterns near major airports nationwide. Last week, the agency announced changes aimed at addressing similar safety issues at airports in Las Vegas, reflecting a broader national strategy for managing helicopter and commercial aircraft operations.
Similar Incidents on the Rise
The FAA’s investigation is timely, as similar incidents have occurred recently. For example, on April 22, 2025, United Airlines executed a go-around at Denver International Airport when an Aeromexico aircraft failed to clear the active runway on time. FlightRadar24 data reveals that United flight UA2151, which had departed from Newark Liberty International Airport, was instructed to abort its landing after nearly four hours of flight.
Another notable incident occurred on March 28, 2025, when American Airlines flight AA938 from Los Angeles to Charlotte performed an emergency go-around after air traffic controllers identified a small aircraft still on the runway during final approach.
These incidents underscore the ongoing challenges faced by air traffic controllers and airlines as they navigate the complexities of modern air travel.
As the FAA continues to investigate, it’s essential for passengers and airlines alike to stay informed about safety protocols and operational changes. What are your thoughts on the recent go-arounds at DCA? Share your perspective below, and check out related articles for more insights into aviation safety.
