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FAA says proposed Trump arch would need red obstruction lights

By David Shepardson Reuters

Updated June 10, 2026 7:22 AM

An artist's rendering of U.S. President Donald Trump's proposed 'Independence Arch' is seen in this handout obtained on April 10, 2026. U.S. Commission on Fine Arts/Handout via REUTERS THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN SUPPLIED BY A THIRD PARTY U.S. Commission on Fine Arts Reuters

WASHINGTON - A U.S. agency said Wednesday that President Donald Trump's proposed 250-foot tall Independence Arch would need red safety lights but does not pose any safety impacts to traffic at nearby Reagan Washington National Airport.

The Federal Aviation Administration said it will next conduct a full aeronautical study in coordination with the National Park Service. The preliminary review said the arch in Washington would need to be lit with red obstruction lights. The proposed arch is 3,000 feet from Reagan National and within the airport's main approach and departure corridor.

(Reporting by David Shepardson)

A large display opposing U.S. President Donald Trump's proposed 250-foot 'Triumphal Arch' stands near the Arlington Memorial Bridge, in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 24, 2026. REUTERS/Elizabeth Frantz Elizabeth Frantz Reuters

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This story was originally published June 10, 2026 at 6:55 AM.

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