NTSB recommends closure of helicopter route following midair collision
NTSB recommends closure of helicopter route near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport following midair collision between a plane and an Army Black Hawk helicopter that killed everyone on board. The collision occurred due to risks of midair collisions between helicopters and airplane traffic using runways 15 and 33 at the airport.
Key Points
- NTSB recommends closure of helicopter route near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
- The midair collision occurred between an American Airlines plane and an Army Black Hawk helicopter
- NTSB identified risks of midair collisions between helicopters and airplane traffic using runways 15 and 33 at the airport
- Army Black Hawk crew was highly experienced and accustomed to the crowded skies around the nation’s capital
Pros
- NTSB's recommendations aim to prevent future midair collisions and increase aviation safety
- Identified risks of midair collisions being addressed to avoid tragic incidents
Cons
- Closure of helicopter route may impact helicopter operations in the area
- Investigation revealed inaccurate altitude readings on the Black Hawk may have contributed to the collision