NTSB Conducts Hearings on Deadly Mid-Air Collision Near Reagan National Airport

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) held a three-day hearing in Washington, investigating a deadly mid-air collision that occurred near Reagan National Airport in January. The crash killed 67 people and was the nation's deadliest plane crash in over 20 years.

The NTSB focused its inquiry on the military helicopter involved in the collision, seeking more information about the placement of flight instruments, such as altimeters, within the helicopter itself.

According to investigators, there were already 85 near misses reported around Washington Reagan National Airport, and military helicopters in that crowded airspace often flew with a key piece of equipment turned off.

During Wednesday's hearing, NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy addressed family members of the victims who were present. She said:

Please know that your loved ones are why we fight so hard for safety. They are why we are meeting here today for this investigative hearing. I do also want to commend each of you for your remarkable selflessness in the wake of a tragedy. You have courageously spoken out and advocated for important reforms to save lives and improve aviation safety. I hope the information that we uncovered during this hearing will support your efforts.

The investigation into the DCA collision is ongoing, with no report on the cause of the accident expected yet. The NTSB's hearing will conclude on Friday afternoon.