Congress Holds Hearing on Crash Over Potomac River
A Senate committee is holding a hearing today about the midair crash between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines regional jet. The crash happened on January 29 over the Potomac River near Washington, D.C. Sadly, 67 people lost their lives. Lawmakers want to know what went wrong and how to prevent such accidents in the future.
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The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is still investigating. Their first report showed that many near misses have happened in the airspace near Reagan National Airport from 2021 to 2024. After the crash, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) put new rules in place to keep helicopters away from the airport’s runways. But lawmakers say more needs to be done.
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Senators Want Answers
Senator Jerry Moran, who leads the hearing, said this crash must not be forgotten.
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“The NTSB report helps us understand what happened. But it does not take away the pain of the families who lost loved ones,” he said.
Several important people will speak at the hearing, including:
- Jennifer Homendy, Chair of the NTSB
- Chris Rocheleau, Acting FAA Administrator
- Brigadier General Matthew Braman, Army Aviation Director
Family members of the victims will also attend, asking for changes to improve air safety.
Family of Victim Demands Change
Dailey Crafton, whose brother Casey died in the crash, says action must be taken.
“There have been so many near misses. It took this crash for people to realize how dangerous this airspace is,” he told USA TODAY.
Casey Crafton, 40, was on the American Airlines flight returning from a work trip. He left behind his wife and three young sons.
“There is a huge hole in our lives now,” his brother said. “Casey was one of a kind.”
Legal Fight Begins
In February, the Crafton family filed a $250 million legal claim against the FAA and the Army. They believe the government was negligent. The government has six months to respond before the family can file a lawsuit.
Bob Clifford, a lawyer representing multiple families, says legal action is necessary.
“We believe this crash could have been prevented,” Clifford said. “The people responsible must be held accountable.”
His team has asked American Airlines and other companies to keep all evidence related to the crash.
What’s Next for Aviation Safety?
This crash has raised big questions about air safety. Lawmakers may push for:
- Better coordination between military and civilian planes.
- Stricter rules for flight paths near busy airports.
- More funding for air safety technology.
- Harsher penalties for air traffic rule violations.
After today’s hearing, the NTSB will give a private briefing to the victims’ families. Many hope this will lead to real changes in aviation safety.
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Final Thoughts
Families of the victims want answers and action. Aviation experts agree that safety rules must improve to prevent another tragedy like this. The nation now watches to see if lawmakers will take real steps—or if nothing will change.
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