Tragedy Over the Potomac: Analyzing the DCA Midair Collision | FAA Decoded Podcast #7

Welcome to Episode 7 of FAA Decoded, where we examine the devastating midair collision between a PSA Airlines CRJ700 and a US Army Sikorsky UH-60L helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on January 29, 2025. In this episode (running approximately 17 minutes), we break down the NTSB’s preliminary report, detailing the events leading to the tragedy that claimed 67 lives.

Explore the flight paths, crew actions, air traffic control communications, and the critical moments of miscommunication that contributed to the accident. We analyze the challenges of helicopter routes near busy airports, the role of TCAS and ADS-B systems, and the history of near-miss incidents at DCA. This episode also covers the wreckage findings, emergency response, and the FAA’s immediate safety actions, including temporary flight restrictions. Join us as we uncover lessons for improving aviation safety in high-traffic areas.

Subscribe to stay updated, and leave a review to share your thoughts! Have questions about aviation safety or this incident? Send us a message — we’d love to connect!

#aviation #flightsafety #NTSB #midaircollision #FAA #podcast

Weather Wisdom for Pilots: Decoding Aviation Weather Theory | FAA Decoded Podcast #6

Welcome to Episode 6 of FAA Decoded, where we unravel the essentials of aviation weather theory to empower pilots with the knowledge to fly safely! In this episode (running approximately 40 minutes), we dive into the atmosphere’s composition, circulation patterns, and the forces that drive weather changes, like the Coriolis force and atmospheric pressure. Learn how temperature, moisture, and wind impact flight performance, from takeoff distances to human physiology at altitude.

We explore key weather phenomena—convective currents, low-level wind shear, microbursts, and frontal systems (warm, cold, stationary, occluded)—and their hazards, including turbulence, icing, hail, and thunderstorms. Discover how to interpret surface weather maps, understand cloud types, and anticipate ceiling and visibility challenges. Packed with practical insights, this episode equips pilots to make informed decisions using weather reports from Flight Service Stations and avoid risks like engine water ingestion or lightning strikes.

Subscribe to stay updated, and leave a review to share your thoughts! Have questions about weather impacts on flying? Drop them in the comments or send us a message — we’d love to connect!

Disclaimer: FAA Decoded is an independent podcast and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Federal Aviation Administration.

#aviation #weather #pilottraining #flightsafety #FAA #podcast

Welcome to Episode 5 of FAA Decoded, where we dive into the critical world of Aeronautical Decision-Making (ADM) to enhance flight safety! In this episode (running approximately 45 minutes), we explore how pilots can systematically assess risks, manage stress, and make informed decisions in the dynamic aviation environment. Discover the history of ADM, its evolution through Crew Resource Management (CRM) and Single-Pilot Resource Management (SRM), and the role of the FAA in integrating decision-making into pilot training.

We break down key tools like the 5 Ps (Plan, Plane, Pilot, Passengers, Programming), the 3P model (Perceive, Process, Perform), the DECIDE model, and checklists like PAVE, CARE, and TEAM to help pilots mitigate hazards. Learn about hazardous attitudes, operational pitfalls, workload management, and the impact of automation in modern aircraft. Drawing from real-world examples and NTSB reports, this episode equips aspiring and seasoned pilots with the skills to avoid the human factors behind 80% of aviation accidents.

Subscribe to stay updated, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts! Have questions about ADM or flight safety? Drop them in the comments or send us a message — we’d love to hear from you!