NTSB Investigation: Army Blackhawk Crash Above Altitude Limit

Mid-Air Collision Investigation

• 💥 The NTSB is holding investigative hearings into a deadly mid-air collision involving an Army Blackhawk helicopter and an American Airlines jet.
• 💔 This crash, which killed 67 people, is the nation's deadliest plane crash since 2001.

Army Blackhawk's Role

• ⚠️ Investigators revealed the Army Blackhawk was flying above its 200-foot altitude limit due to a faulty altimeter.
• ✈️ This altitude violation is believed to have contributed to the fatal collision.

FAA and Air Traffic Control Scrutiny

• 🔍 The hearings are also focusing on the actions of the FAA and air traffic control at Reagan National Airport.
• 👀 Evidence suggests pilots were relying heavily on visual separation rather than solely on radar or technology.
• 🗣️ A recurring phrase, "we just make it work," was heard from air traffic controllers and pilots, indicating a potential normalization of risky operational practices.

Broader Air Safety Concerns

• 🚨 The incident highlights concerns about the volume and complexity of airspace around busy airports like Reagan National.
• ✈️ Recent near-misses involving other commercial and military aircraft in July underscore broader air safety issues.
• 💡 The investigation will also examine collision avoidance technology and safety management systems.