FAA Ends Visual Separation for Helicopters Near Airports (faa.gov)

The FAA suspended visual separation between airplanes and helicopters in Class B, Class C, and Terminal Radar Service Areas, requiring controllers to use radar to maintain lateral or vertical distances where helicopters cross arrival and departure paths. The general notice follows a year-long safety review prompted by the January 2025 mid-air collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, which also led to permanent helicopter restrictions near DCA in January 2026. Helicopter operators may face route changes or delays, and urgent medical or law enforcement flights will take priority over airline operations.