General aviation could return to Washington National airport next month under a plan being finalised by the US Transportation Security Administration. The six-point plan, including background checks for pilots and advance clearance of passengers, is expected to be finalised by the end of this month.
Business and private aircraft have been banned from National since the 11 September terrorist attacks because of the airport's proximity to the White House and Congress. Planned security measures include screening of passengers and baggage, securing and inspecting aircraft, and complying with special air traffic control procedures.
US transportation secretary Norman Mineta, meanwhile, has urged Congress to veto proposed legislation that would provide $5.5 billion in compensation to GA businesses hurt by the aftermath of 11 September.
Mineta says that compensation is not required because the recently enacted economic stimulus package and budget proposals are reviving the US economy. The US government supported the $15 billion airline bail-out, but says similar aid for GA would be difficult to distribute.
Source: Flight International
