Legislators advance the fiscal 2026 NDAA while weighing concerns over military aircraft operations near Reagan National Airport.
The Senate is expected to hold a vote this week on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which authorizes $900.6 billion for defense programs, primarily for the Department of Defense. The Senate has cleared a key procedural vote and is expected to complete final passage after one additional step, following the House’s approval of the bill by a wide margin.
“I think we’re going to get, like the House did, strong bipartisan support,” said Senator Jack Reed of Rhode Island, the ranking member of the Armed Services Committee. “It’s never perfect, but this provides essential resources for the Department of Defense.”
A remaining issue involves a provision addressing flight safety near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport following a fatal collision last year between a passenger jet and an Army helicopter early this year. The bill would require military training aircraft to transmit location signals to air traffic controllers, with limited waiver authority involving both the Defense and Transportation Departments.
Some senators have maintained that the provision does not go far enough and have sought changes, while others say the language adds meaningful safeguards. As debate continues, legislators are also facing a January 30 deadline to prevent another lapse in federal funding.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For lawmakers and defense leaders as they finalize national security policy while balancing operational needs and public safety.
- For the DoD and DOT as they oversee military and civilian airspace coordination.
- For families and personnel affected by aviation safety decisions, asking that future operations prioritize clarity and accountability.
Sources: Roll Call, Federal News Network
