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One pilot was interviewed by federal agents.
An American Airlines A319 departs Reagan National Airport (Photo: Shutterstock | KevinKim)
The union representing around 16,000 American Airlines pilots issued a reminder to its members last week to avoid overflying the restricted airspace over Washington.
Secret Service agents visited one captain at his home after he breached the airspace.
In a memo to its pilots last week that was viewed by AirlineGeeks, the Allied Pilots Association warned members of the consequences for violating the heavily restricted P-56 airspace around the White House. “Your career is at risk,” the APA’s Safety Committee said Friday.
American maintains a hub at Reagan National Airport, which is just a few miles from the White House and Capitol. The airline also has a pilot base at the airport.
“Despite extensive training and outreach, for both the B737 and A32F fleets, incursions through the White House prohibited area, P-56, continue to occur,” the union added.
When departing to the north, aircraft leaving Reagan National are required to make an immediate left turn to avoid this airspace. The P-56 includes areas surrounding the White House, the National Mall, and the Naval Observatory.
“Treat P-56 as if it were a mountain,” the union’s memo stated.
For over 50 years, no aircraft have been allowed through this airspace, which extends up to 18,000 feet. Very few exceptions exist, mostly for flight operations supporting the president or other agency operations.
Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.
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