The recent investigation into the tragic mid-air collision involving a Black Hawk helicopter has unveiled critical findings, notably that the helicopter’s altimeter was malfunctioning and the FAA had been alerted years prior to the incident about the hazards posed by helicopter operations.
During the hearings, NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy expressed her outrage over the FAA’s inaction, questioning how 67 fatalities could occur without proper oversight. The crash claimed the lives of young figure skaters, their families, and several local steamfitters, raising public concern about aviation safety.
Significantly, the helicopter involved was flying at an altitude of 85 metres, exceeding the route’s 61-metre ceiling. However, due to the faulty altimeter, pilots misjudged their altitude, potentially contributing to the disaster. Investigators identified similar issues in three other helicopters from the same squadron. Experts noted that the model that crashed was older and lacked the advanced altitude measuring technology present in newer helicopters.
Both the FAA and the Army attempted to deflect responsibility, although the hearings implied that alternative safety measures could have been implemented. The NTSB’s final report, expected next year, is likely to disclose multiple contributing factors to the crash.
A main concern raised was the approved flight routes near Ronald Reagan International Airport that allowed planes and helicopters to operate with dangerously limited separation. One Army officer highlighted this as a significant safety issue, given that a mere 23-metre distance was permitted.
Testimony revealed inconsistencies in how air traffic controllers managed the busy airspace, with claims that controllers relied heavily on visual separation and occasionally executed “squeeze plays” to facilitate landings. On the fateful night of the collision, pilots were asked whether they could see the approaching jet; they affirmed they could, but it is debated whether they had the appropriate visibility while using night vision goggles.
Despite a prior warning initiative aimed at alerting helicopter pilots about potential hazards, the FAA stalled on implementing these precautions. Additionally, the NTSB noted that the FAA overlooked an alarming trend of 85 near misses in the three years leading up to the incident. Following the tragedy, rather than acknowledging prior warnings, the FAA transferred relevant personnel away from the airport, a move criticized by the NTSB.
Chairwoman Homendy condemned this lack of accountability, asserting that all signs pointed to a clear safety risk. The ongoing discussions underscore a pressing need for the FAA to take responsibility for its oversight failures in the air traffic system, particularly concerning helicopter operations in urban areas.