North Indy News

U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.), along with eight other Senate Republicans, has introduced the Rotorcraft Operations Transparency and Oversight Reform (ROTOR) Act, aimed at improving aviation safety. The move follows a midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on January 29, which brought renewed attention to airspace oversight.

Senator Young emphasized the need for updated safety measures. “The tragic accident near Reagan National Airport is a sobering reminder of the importance of airspace oversight and modernization,” said Senator Young. “Our bill takes a common-sense approach to better prevent future tragedies and ensure our skies are safer for everyone.”

The ROTOR Act would require almost all aircraft and helicopters to use Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast (ADS-B) technology. ADS-B Out enables aircraft to transmit their precise location more accurately than traditional radar systems. The legislation also mandates that all aircraft operating in controlled airspace be equipped with ADS-B In, facilitating improved communication between pilots, air traffic control, and ground vehicles.

There are exceptions for sensitive government missions or national security events where aircraft may not have to use ADS-B Out technology. Other provisions include enhanced oversight of helicopter routes near commercial airports, quarterly compliance reports on ADS-B Out usage, and a study to explore further improvements around Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) have joined Senator Young as co-sponsors of the bill.

A full version of the proposed legislation is available online.