Bipartisan Congressional Probe into Military Aviation Safety

A bipartisan congressional investigation into military aviation safety has been launched following a January 29 collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines regional jet near Reagan National Airport.

Led by Reps. William Timmons and Suhas Subramanyam, the probe found fault with the Army's operational procedures, indicating a lack of communication and training regarding flying in civilian airspace. The report highlights a troubling pattern, noting that the military's operations around D.C. have resulted in numerous near misses, with lawmakers emphasizing the need for clearer protocols and enhanced training to ensure public safety.

The federal government has accepted liability for the January crash, which claimed 67 lives, and the investigation calls for a thorough review of military flight coordination mechanisms in civilian airspace.

Following the incident, the FAA has since closed helicopter routes that intersect with commercial air traffic at National Airport, and military use of the Pentagon helipad has been halted due to safety concerns.

The investigation underscores the urgent need for improved oversight of military aviation to prevent future tragedies.