Story perspectives

Safety Fears Rise as NDAA Passes Without Tracking Military Flights

12/11/2025

Summary

Story summary

Jennifer Homendy, chair of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and Senate aviation leaders criticized a National Defense Authorization Act provision that could jeopardize safety at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
Homendy said the provision would allow military aircraft to operate without broadcasting their location, increasing midair collision risk after the January 29 incident that killed 67 people.
The House passed the NDAA.

History

Historical Context

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) has shaped U.S. military policy since its inception in 1961. In 2023, a provision allowing military aircraft to operate without location broadcasting raised safety concerns, echoing past debates on aviation safety post-9/11. The National Transportation Safety Board cited a January 29 incident that killed 67, highlighting the need for reevaluating military protocols to enhance civilian airspace safety.

1 of 2

Story summary

Jennifer Homendy, chair of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and Senate aviation leaders criticized a National Defense Authorization Act provision that could jeopardize safety at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
Homendy said the provision would allow military aircraft to operate without broadcasting their location, increasing midair collision risk after the January 29 incident that killed 67 people.
The House passed the NDAA.

1 / 2