Story perspectives

Call for Airspace Redesign After Fatal Potomac Collision

1/30/2026

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Summary

Story summary

One year ago, a collision over the Potomac River killed 67 people and raised safety concerns at Reagan National Airport.
Investigations found the Army helicopter was at the wrong altitude and its ADS-B transmitter was off.
Former National Transportation Safety Board investigator Jeff Guzzetti calls for airspace redesign, better data, and improved air traffic controller training.
Recommendations will focus on safety measures for military and commercial flights in congested airspace.

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Story summary

One year ago, a collision over the Potomac River killed 67 people and raised safety concerns at Reagan National Airport.
Investigations found the Army helicopter was at the wrong altitude and its ADS-B transmitter was off.
Former National Transportation Safety Board investigator Jeff Guzzetti calls for airspace redesign, better data, and improved air traffic controller training.
Recommendations will focus on safety measures for military and commercial flights in congested airspace.