Close Call Between Marine One and Passenger Jet Highlights Communication Issues

The crew of Marine One faced challenges alerting Reagan National Airport of President Donald Trump’s helicopter departure on August 4, resulting in a close proximity to a passenger jet, as revealed in a federal report.

Communication Hurdles

Attempts to contact Reagan National’s helicopter-control frequency failed initially, with the first call not received and a second transmission unreadable. The crew attempted alternate notifications through Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling but were unsuccessful.

Missed Notification Result

The lack of notification led to Reagan National controllers clearing Envoy Air Flight 3742 for takeoff from Runway 1, coinciding with Trump’s departure from the Ellipse. The preliminary estimate from the FAA reported the aircraft came within 0.82 nautical miles laterally and about 700 feet vertically.

“Traffic, Traffic.”

The traffic-collision system of the passenger jet signaled as the aircraft ascended. While pilots did not visually identify Marine One, its presence was noted on cockpit displays. The system did not issue an urgent resolution advisory.

Resolving Communication Issues

Marine One made contact with the tower after gaining altitude. Controllers subsequently issued a traffic advisory, with the helicopter crew confirming visual contact with the Envoy jet.

Earlier concerns regarding communication had been raised by Marine Helicopter Squadron One and Reagan National tower staff. Backup notification procedures were agreed upon for future operations.

System Review and Adjustments

FAA technicians identified inadequate coverage between the radio transmitter-receiver site and the Ellipse. Radios were moved to enhance communication reliability, resulting in successful checks later.

The incident remains under review by the FAA and NTSB, with initial findings characterizing it as a “momentary loss of separation.” The investigation is ongoing and will culminate in safety recommendations and further findings.

The White House confirmed President Trump was never at risk during the incident due to the expertise of Marine One’s pilots.