EXHIBIT 23.1
 
                   CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
 
As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the use of our reports
(and to all references to our Firm) included in or made a part of this
registration statement on Form S-3 filed by NEXTLINK Communications, Inc.
 
                                          /s/ Arthur Andersen LLP
 
Seattle, Washington,
April 29, 1999