Federal authorities are investigating a deadly crash between a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines plane on January 29 in Washington, D.C. The collision killed 67 people. Officials confirmed that the military helicopter had turned off its advanced tracking system, raising concerns about flight safety.
During a briefing, Sen. Ted Cruz revealed that the Black Hawk disabled its automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) system before the crash. This technology helps air traffic control track planes using real-time GPS, altitude, and speed data. While the helicopter’s transponder was still on, ADS-B provides more precise tracking.
Investigators are also looking into whether the helicopter exceeded its 200-foot flight ceiling. Initial air traffic control data suggests it may have flown at 300 feet. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said retrieving the helicopter from the Potomac River is vital to confirm its exact altitude.
Salvage teams began removing the Black Hawk wreckage on Thursday after recovering major parts of the American Airlines plane, including its fuselage, cockpit, and wings.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has restricted air traffic at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) due to recovery efforts and weather conditions. This may cause minor delays for passengers.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced plans to revise staffing policies for air traffic control towers and reassess Washington’s airspace congestion. The FAA is short 3,000 controllers, which could affect aviation safety.
Duffy also raised concerns about military training flights in restricted airspace. He suggested these missions should occur during off-peak hours to reduce risks. He criticized the low-altitude Black Hawk training flight at 9 p.m., urging that such exercises happen later at night when there is less commercial air traffic.
The NTSB has gathered flight data, maintenance records, and cockpit recordings from both aircraft. Investigators have interviewed all five air traffic controllers on duty at the time and are reviewing flight logs and communications to piece together the events leading to the collision.
An initial report is expected in 30 days, but the full investigation may take up to two years to determine the cause.
The crash has drawn attention to the high number of near-midair collisions around Reagan National Airport. Since 1987, the airport has recorded 30 such incidents, one-third involving military aircraft. While concerning, experts say these incidents don’t necessarily indicate systemic failures in air safety.
As the investigation continues, officials will focus on understanding why the helicopter’s tracking system was turned off, if it violated altitude restrictions, and what steps can be taken to prevent similar accidents.
