Episode 40: Harold Coghlan on the Mid-Air Collision near Reagan National Airport
Description
A tragic mid-air collision near Washington Reagan Airport has put a spotlight on the dangers of D.C.'s complex airspace. In this episode, veteran pilot Harold Coghlan joins Miles O’Brien to break down what happened, the risks of military and civilian aviation operating so closely, and what needs to change to prevent future disasters.
🔍 Key Topics Discussed:
✅ The unique dangers of flying in Washington D.C. airspace
✅ How military helicopters and airliners operate in the same congested airspace
✅ The ‘see and avoid’ problem—why night flying increases the risk
✅ What went wrong in this accident and how future crashes can be avoided
✅ The troubling rise in military aviation accidents
⏳ Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction & Overview of the Accident
04:20 - Meet Harold Coghlan: A Veteran Pilot’s Perspective
08:15 - The Complex Architecture of D.C. Airspace
14:50 - The Role of Military ‘White Tops’ in VIP Transport
20:30 - See and Avoid: Why It’s Risky at Night
26:40 - The Black Hawk’s Maneuver—Was It a Mistake?
34:15 - Military Aviation’s Safety Crisis
41:00 - How Airspace Rules and Safety Procedures Must Change
45:30 - Final Thoughts: Will This Accident Be a Wake-Up Call?
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