FAA Suspends Visual Separation Procedures for Helicopter Air Traffic Control
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has suspended the use of visual separation procedures for helicopters by air traffic controllers. This action follows a safety recommendation from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The NTSB investigation into a fatal 2023 mid-air collision between two helicopters in Florida found that the procedure was a contributing factor. Controllers must now revert to other standard separation methods, such as radar or specified vertical and lateral distances. This change is intended to enhance safety and prevent similar future accidents involving helicopter traffic.
Official Source: https://aviationweek.com/business-aviation/safety-ops-regulation/faa-suspends-helicopter-atc-visual-separations
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