FAA Approves Trump’s Proposed Arch in Arlington

Date: September 18, 2026, at 4:04 p.m. EDT

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has determined that the 250-foot triumphal arch proposed by President Donald Trump for Arlington, Virginia, will not endanger aircraft. This conclusion comes from an aeronautical study conducted by the agency.

The arch will be equipped with several safety features according to the FAA’s guidelines. To ensure visibility to pilots, the structure will feature ‘a non-standard eternal flame.’ Additionally, searchlight projectors will be used to continuously floodlight the arch from its base. These measures aim to make the arch easily identifiable to pilots flying in the vicinity.

The proposed site for this structure is near Memorial Circle in Arlington, Virginia. The FAA’s approval clears an important regulatory hurdle, paving the way for the arch’s construction.