NTSB Raises Alarm Over Midair Collision Risks at Hollywood Burbank Airport
BURBANK, Calif. — The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued a stark warning about the escalating risk of a midair collision at Hollywood Burbank Airport, a popular hub favored by celebrities and commercial airlines alike. The chair of the NTSB, Jennifer Homendy, expressed deep concerns during a recent safety hearing, highlighting that commercial airlines have contacted her directly, fearing that the next major aviation disaster could occur at this airport.
At a meeting convened last week to review the January 2025 collision between an American Airlines flight and a Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River, Homendy singled out Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) as a critical area of concern. “Burbank is one [airport] where commercial airlines have called me to say the next midair [collision] is going to be at Burbank, and nobody at the FAA is paying attention to us,” she said, underscoring the urgency of the situation. “The FAA has to ensure safety. That is their job.”
Hollywood Burbank Airport, located in the Los Angeles metropolitan area, has seen a significant increase in passenger volume, with 862,825 travelers passing through from January to November 2025—a 12.08% rise compared to the previous year. This surge in traffic, combined with the airport’s complex airspace, has intensified concerns about potential collisions.
The airport’s proximity to other busy flight corridors and the mix of commercial and private aircraft create a challenging environment for air traffic controllers. The NTSB’s warning comes amid a broader aviation safety crisis, as officials nationwide grapple with increasing flight volumes and aging infrastructure.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring the safety of the nation’s airspace, but according to Homendy, the agency has not yet adequately addressed the specific risks at Burbank. The NTSB chair’s comments have drawn attention to the need for enhanced oversight and updated safety protocols at the airport.
Experts note that midair collisions, while rare, are among the most catastrophic aviation accidents. The January 2025 incident involving an American Airlines jet and a military helicopter near Washington, D.C., resulted in a thorough review of airspace management practices. The NTSB’s focus on Hollywood Burbank suggests that similar vulnerabilities exist in other high-traffic areas.
Passengers and residents near the airport have expressed concern, given the airport’s reputation as a convenient gateway for celebrities and business travelers. The airport’s website reports ongoing efforts to improve facilities and accommodate growing demand, but safety remains a paramount issue.
For more information on aviation safety and regulatory oversight, the National Transportation Safety Board provides detailed reports and recommendations. The Federal Aviation Administration oversees air traffic control and safety regulations, while the U.S. Department of Transportation works to coordinate national transportation safety initiatives.
As Hollywood Burbank Airport continues to grow, industry officials and regulators face mounting pressure to implement measures that will prevent a catastrophic accident. The NTSB’s warning serves as a critical call to action for the FAA and other stakeholders to prioritize safety enhancements in this increasingly congested airspace.
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