Three major US airlines issue statement on DCA perimeter rule

Friday, June 16, 2023

Three major US airlines have voiced their concern in a joint statement, arguing that considering Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport to expand its current perimeter rule would have negative consequences.

In 1960, a federal “perimeter” rule was created at DCA, heavily restricting the number of flights allowed over 1,250 miles.

Effectively limiting operations to within this perimeter, however, even within the United States, can determine operations to cities on the West Coast, such as Los Angeles and San Francisco; however, currently, there are ten routes to and from DCA greater than 1,250 miles, flown by seven airlines.

Longhaul at Reagan

Rep. Burgess Owens (R-Utah) and Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) have introduced a bipartisan bill to add more flights to the airport’s daily operations, including long-haul flights.

The proposed bill is titled the Direct Capital Access Act of 2023 or the DCA Act of 2023. As mentioned above, the bill proposes adding new slots at DCA.

Still, no more than eight additional operations per hour between 07:00 and 21:59. The bill is supported by the Capital Access Alliance, a group that includes Delta Air Lines.

Multiple senators and airlines have already expressed their opinions of the change, noting that the commencement of long-haul services at Reagan would undermine Washington Dulles (IAD) and further expansion being seen at Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI).

Three airlines are firmly against the permit expansion

American (AA), Alaska (AS), and United (UA) airlines have firmly expressed their disapproval of the permit expansion, emphasizing the increased passenger numbers will lead to extended passenger and flight delays.

As reported by a news agency, Virginia lawmakers strongly oppose the proposed changes for Raegan, noting that it will hurt Dulles’ international status and operations.

A key driver in the suggested expansion at DCA is the Capital Access Alliances.

DCA is the only airport in the country subject to a federally-imposed perimeter rule and is being underutilized as a result. This nearly 60-year-old regulation is making air travel longer and more expensive and harming businesses and the environment.

Regan Airport is five miles from Capitol Hill, whereas Dulles is 30 miles.

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