The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) revealed findings regarding the Army helicopter collision with a commercial plane over Washington, DC, in January. Incorrect altitude readings contributed to the close encounter between the aircraft, resulting in the tragic incident that claimed the lives of 67 individuals.
During the hearings held in Washington, it was disclosed that air traffic controllers had raised concerns about helicopter traffic near Ronald Reagan National Airport over the years. However, these concerns were not adequately addressed, leading to the fatal crash.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was also criticized for not implementing route changes or issuing warnings to pilots despite 85 near misses in the past three years at the airport. NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy expressed frustration with the bureaucratic nature of the system, emphasizing the importance of ensuring safety.
Various parties involved attempted to shift blame towards air traffic controllers and the lack of separation protocols between aircraft and helicopters. The hearing revealed the challenges faced by helicopters flying in the vicinity of the airport, with small margins of error posing significant risks.
One of the key issues identified was the discrepancy in altimeter readings on Black Hawk helicopters, with data showing significant deviations from the actual altitude. The Army acknowledged the challenges faced by pilots in maintaining accurate altitude, especially in high-traffic areas.
Concerns were also raised about the use of night vision goggles and the failure of ADS-B Out systems on Army helicopters, highlighting systemic issues that contributed to the crash. The NTSB emphasized the need for comprehensive safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Legislation introduced by Sen. Ted Cruz aimed to enhance aircraft safety by requiring the use of advanced technology like ADS-B In. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed support for the bill, signaling a potential shift towards more stringent safety regulations.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
