Radar-Driven Separation to Safeguard Mixed Aircraft Traffic at Busy Airports
The FAA and U.S. Transportation Secretary announced a GENOT mandating radar-based separation between airplanes and helicopters in high-traffic airspace (replacing visual separation). Triggered by safety reviews and incidents near Reagan National, the measure applies to Class B/C airspace and TRSA, using radar to maintain defined lateral/vertical distances and supported by AI tools. Helicopter routes may be delayed or rerouted to ensure safety, with ongoing safety mitigations and actions at DCA and other airports since 2025.













