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67 Dead in Washington D.C. Midair Collision: NTSB Investigates

1/27/2026

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NTSB Investigates Collision

On January 29, 2025, a midair collision near Washington, D.C., between an American Airlines jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter killed 67 people, the deadliest U.S. soil crash since 2001.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will hold a hearing to identify contributing factors and recommend safety changes.
Investigators have noted issues including a poorly designed helicopter route and the Black Hawk flying 78 feet too high.

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FAA Stalls Safety Measures

One year after the deadly midair collision near Washington, D.C., efforts to enhance airspace safety have stalled.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has asked airlines to adjust schedules to reduce flight frequency at Ronald Reagan National Airport.
Control tower staffing remains nearly unchanged.
No measures have been taken to permanently alter flight routes to alleviate congestion.
Families of victims are frustrated by congressional inaction on a proposed air safety bill facing House opposition.

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NTSB Investigates Collision

On January 29, 2025, a midair collision near Washington, D.C., between an American Airlines jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter killed 67 people, the deadliest U.S. soil crash since 2001.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will hold a hearing to identify contributing factors and recommend safety changes.
Investigators have noted issues including a poorly designed helicopter route and the Black Hawk flying 78 feet too high.

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