Local senators slam FAA bill provision that would add long-haul flights to a key DC-area airport and benefit lawmakers: 'Ridiculous and dangerous'

• Many lawmakers on Capitol Hill have been pushing for long-haul flights at National Airport for years.
• But the senators from Virginia and Maryland are firmly against the provision, pointing to safety concerns.
• The provision was included in a FAA reauthorization bill being negotiated in Congress.

For many members of Congress, the allure of adding long-haul flights to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is impossible to resist. The Arlington, Va., airport is easily accessible by car and public transit, and its proximity to Capitol Hill makes it a favorite of lawmakers.