City Cast DC Is DC’s Airspace Getting More Dangerous? Plus, Sandwich Guy Jurors, and More Trayon White Drama
Dec 12, 2025
Martin Austermuhle, a D.C. news and policy reporter, dives into pressing local issues. He discusses the rising concerns around airspace safety after the DCA crash, highlighting military access and federal helicopter activities. Trayon White's financial disclosure issues and the potential consequences of his actions are also on the table. The conversation takes a lighter turn with insights from Sandwich Guy jurors, focusing on jury dynamics and perceptions of the prosecution. Join for a mix of serious news and civic reflections!
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Crowded Capital Airspace Raises Safety Risks
- D.C.'s airspace is crowded with commercial and military flights, creating long-standing safety risks highlighted by the January DCA crash.
- Reversing post-crash restrictions risks reintroducing uncoordinated military flights that won't broadcast positions, increasing collision chances.
Congressional Deference To Military Shapes Policy
- Congress tends to defer to military requests, which helps explain why lawmakers backed restoring training flights over D.C.
- That deference makes legislative fixes to airspace safety politically difficult despite expert objections.
Residents Spot Nonbroadcasting Federal Helicopters
- Martin and others noticed a spike in federal helicopters over D.C. after increased federal presence this August.
- Residents and helicopter-watchers found examples of helicopters not broadcasting positions and raised concerns with Homeland Security.