NTSB Probes Fatal DC Midair Collision at Reagan

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is conducting a three-day hearing into the January midair collision near Reagan National Airport that killed 67 people—the deadliest U.S. plane crash since 2001. The accident involved an American Airlines flight and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, with the latter reportedly flying above permitted altitude and with its collision avoidance system disabled. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy has criticized the FAA for a 'make it work mentality' and slow adoption of safety alerts, while also noting unauthorized use of civilian heliports by Army helicopters. Investigators are examining air traffic control procedures and safety culture at the FAA and Army. Thousands of pages of evidence, including cockpit voice recorder transcripts, have been reviewed. The NTSB’s final report is expected next year, with hearings set to conclude Friday.