B737-700
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 192
Communication Breakdown; Confusion
ATC Issue All Types; Conflict Airborne Conflict; Inflight Event / Encounter Weather / Turbulence
Air Traffic Control Issued Advisory / Alert; Air Traffic Control Separated Traffic; Air Traffic Control Issued New Clearance
Human Factors; Procedure; Weather
We exited holding and we were cleared to RANJR to cross at 280 on the TRUPS RNAV STAR to DCA. Once turning toward RANJR; we were advised of a storm cell in the vicinity by ATC and then requested left deviations. We were cleared left deviations and USAAY when able along with an expedited descent to FL210. We made our deviation about 15 degrees to the left and began the descent. Shortly thereafter; we received a frequency change. When I checked in with the new frequency; I advised that we were deviating left for weather; direct USAAY when able. While reprogramming and briefing the arrival and approach; the controller asked us where we were going. I said again left deviations and then USAAY when able. What appeared to be a supervisor jumped on the frequency and advised us that we were coming down on top of everyone. We were given a new altitude of FL230 and a 150 heading. They stopped another aircraft at FL220. We were eventually cleared to 14;000 feet and direct to SUPRT to rejoin the arrival. Shortly thereafter; we were handed off to Potomac Approach. The rest of the flight continued normally.
When the B737-700 crew; flying direct to cross RANJR at FL280; was cleared to deviate off the TRUPS RNAV STAR for weather;'...direct USAAY when able; descend and maintain FL210;' they did so. After a frequency change an urgent response from ATC advised they were descending into traffic and to stop their descent at FL230 and fly heading 150 for traffic.