Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy mentioned on Tuesday that he had yet to receive any feedback from the Pentagon regarding his questions about Army helicopters raised last week.
Martha Maccalum, the host of Fox News, inquired if there was any further word from the Pentagon concerning a recent flyover. Duffy responded.
Maccalum also remarked that the Pentagon “doesn’t understand why he hasn’t gotten back to you on this yet, but hopefully they will soon.”
“I hope so too,” Duffy replied.
US Army spokesperson Colonel Victoria Goldfedib informed Hill that the Pentagon’s air traffic control actions adhered to the prescribed FAA flight path and that the UH-60 Blackhawk was instructed to execute a “go-around” while maintaining compliance with all necessary procedures.
This led DCA Air Traffic Control to issue a “Go Around” directive to two civilian aircraft to ensure airspace safety.
“The US Army is committed to aviation safety and conducts its flight operations following all approved procedures,” said Goldfedib.
Reports indicate that a VIP was on board an aircraft granted access to the airspace from Reagan Washington National Airport.
“But who qualifies as VIP? Is it a two-star general or perhaps a three-star general?” Duffy queried during the discussion.
A deadly accident involving an Army helicopter and an American Airlines flight earlier this January had restricted operations around the airport in March.
“I want to commend Secretary Hegses. He grounded those operations for two weeks,” Duffy shared with Fox.
“We’ll collaborate to determine the way forward. They aren’t flying right now, and it’s essential for us as Americans to be informed.”
“They are meant to serve all of us. We need clarity on who qualifies for that VIP operation. And if training is necessary, why conduct it in the middle of the day? Maybe early morning, like 2 AM or 3 AM, would be better.”
