I'm m not going to do my UK vs US ting this time.
DCA does not seem to be inherently dangerous viewed by an outsider. Intense yes and the heli route does not make any sense. Certainly not if they are doing the 01/33 switch. Is there ground comms between the US mil heliport and the airport and can DCA put a temporary stop on a departure.
Controller seriously over worked but split frequencies may not be an advantage in this situation but two controllers operating would. Take turns in monitoring.
How long would a shift be at that pace for DCA tower - I wouldn't last 10 minutes.
An avoidable accident and thinking of those who lost their lives.
Last edited by Pilot DAR; 30th January 2025 at 19:35.
Reason: typo