What is the rationale for the mile limit (other than protectionism for Dulles, which is what I suspect the answer is)? DCA’s short runways and tight space mean larger aircraft can’t use so that’s already a natural limiter.
My bias is that I think Dulles needs to become a better airport rather than limiting competition with DCA.
The rule was put in place by Congress in 1966, when IAD opened. Notionally to manage congestion at DCA, but yes also to get residents to use IAD, which was intended to be DC’s major airport.
My bias is that I think Dulles needs to become a better airport rather than limiting competition with DCA.