Helicopter Operations Banned at Los Angeles Airport

FAA decision to close airspace

Helicopters prohibited at LAX

Restriction affects emergencies

According to reporting by EFE, Los Angeles Airport is facing new restrictions that directly impact helicopter operations in its airspace.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has completely closed the airspace of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to all helicopters.

The measure includes police aircraft, fire department helicopters, and emergency medical services.

The decision is part of a nationwide safety review launched by the federal agency.

Total restriction for helicopters at LAX

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The FAA confirmed in a statement that it is conducting a “proactive nationwide safety review.”

The evaluation focuses on airports with mixed helicopter and airplane traffic.

While this analysis is underway, air traffic controllers will more frequently prohibit helicopter operators from entering LAX airspace.

The restriction will depend on the volume and complexity of the air traffic being managed.

It will also take into account daily incidents recorded in the airspace.

Although it has not yet been determined whether the limitations will be permanent, the restrictions are already in effect.

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Helicopter pilots in Southern California told local media that all flight requests began being denied this week.

According to these accounts, the situation currently amounts to a complete closure of LAX airspace to helicopters under the ongoing LAX helicopter ban.

The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that the restrictions remain in effect.

Background following accident in Washington

The new measures come after an accident that occurred last year in Washington.

The incident took place near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

In that event, a commercial flight and a military helicopter collided.

The crash resulted in the deaths of all occupants of both aircraft.

In total, 67 people died as a consequence of the accident.

The FAA included this incident within the context motivating its decision to carry out a national safety review.

The goal is to strengthen protocols at airports where different types of air traffic converge.

The agency seeks to reduce risks stemming from the simultaneous operation of airplanes and helicopters.

Impact on emergency services

LAX Helicopter Ban Following Accident – PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

Representatives of emergency medical services have warned of potential negative effects.

They have pointed out that the measure could impact the transport of human organs intended for transplants.

Such transfers require speed to ensure organs remain viable.

The success of transplants depends on timely delivery.

The airspace restriction could complicate these urgent transports.

For now, the FAA continues its evaluation without confirming whether the LAX helicopter ban will become permanent.

Meanwhile, helicopter operations around LAX remain suspended.

The measure remains under review as part of the nationwide aviation safety assessment.