Hearing Anticipated for D.C. Midair Collision Tragedy

Thu Jan 29 2026 16:53:35 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Families of victims urge for impactful recommendations as the NTSB conducts hearings to analyze the January 2025 crash that killed 67.

A crucial hearing will unfold in Washington, D.C., as the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigates the midair collision between an American Airlines jet and an Army helicopter, which resulted in the loss of 67 lives. The NTSB will propose recommendations aimed at preventing future tragedies, responding to concerns raised by victims' families about airspace safety around the capital. Since the crash, measures have been taken to segregate helicopter and airplane routes in the area. Families are hopeful for clear and swift action from authorities.

WASHINGTON (RTW) — A pivotal hearing is set for Tuesday aimed at uncovering the factors contributing to a midair collision that resulted in the tragic death of 67 individuals near Washington, D.C., in January 2025. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will recommend safety measures to prevent future incidents.

On January 29, 2025, an American Airlines aircraft, originating from Wichita, Kansas, collided with an Army Black Hawk helicopter, causing both to plunge into the frigid Potomac River. This incident marked the deadliest air crash in the United States since 2001.

In response to the incident, the Federal Aviation Administration took immediate actions to prevent aircraft, particularly helicopters, from entering the same crowded airspace. Recently, the FAA made these adjustments permanent. Nonetheless, the NTSB's recommendations are anticipated to push for more systematic aircraft safety reforms.

“I hope that we see a clear path through the recommendations they offer to ensure that this never happens again,” shared Rachel Feres, who lost her cousin and three family members in the crash. She expressed a deep desire for clarity and urgency in the changes to prevent further loss of life.

The hearing will also examine the design flaws of helicopter routes near Reagan Airport and other systemic errors that contributed to the crash. Victims' families are committed to ensuring their voices lead to significant changes as Congress, the Army, and other officials consider the recommendations put forth by the NTSB.