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The Potomac Flows South and Empties into Chesapeake Bay.

I can certainly understand the need for training and re-certification missions.

According to news reports, the Army UH-60 Blackhawk based at Fort Belvoir in Virginia. Is that where it originally took off from and was flying back to base? If so, what is the rationale to head towards Reagan National on a route that would require it to fly underneath commercial passengers jets on a landing approach instead of away from from the airport? (again, if it had originally flown north of the airport and was now returning to Fort Belvoir when the tragic collison occured.)

The Potomac River flows south and empties into Chesapeake Bay. And there are no major commercial airports that empty into the bay in that direction along side the river.

Yes, there are plenty of other helicopters that fly along the Potomac, both military and commercial. But it is a very crowded airspace. Why not relieve at least some of the congestion?
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DeWayfarer · 61-69, M
The 200 feet maximum for helicopters is total because they are far far more maneuverable than any aircraft.

Technically they are supposed to be able to just hover, given certain velocity, in place.

No commercial or private aircraft can do so. They must be constantly moving to achieve lift.

This altitude factor is not likely the problem however. There are other factors.