The black boxes from a crashed American Airlines jet in DC have been found, raising concerns about air traffic control errors during the incident.
Washington DC: A tragic crash occurred when an American Airlines jet collided with a helicopter. The plane went down into the Potomac River, resulting in 67 fatalities.
Rescue teams worked hard to recover the wreckage. They found two black boxes from the jet, which are crucial for understanding what happened.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the crash. They plan to release a preliminary report in about 30 days.
All 64 passengers on the CRJ700 airplane died, along with three crew members on the Black Hawk helicopter. The crash happened as the jet was landing at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
Initial reports suggest air traffic control staffing was not normal during the incident. One controller was managing both helicopters and planes, which is usually handled by two people.
There have been previous near-misses reported by pilots landing at the same airport. Just a day before the crash, another flight had to abort its landing due to a helicopter in its path.
Radio communications revealed that controllers warned the helicopter about the incoming jet and instructed it to change course.
Washington DC Plane Crash Victims
The collision on January 29, 2025, claimed many lives, including a newly-engaged pilot and a group of friends on a hunting trip.
Among the victims were young figure skaters and soldiers from the helicopter crew. The crash is now the deadliest in the U.S. since 2001.
American Airlines CEO stated the pilot had six years of experience. The Bombardier jet was operated by PSA Airlines.
Defense Secretary mentioned the helicopter crew was experienced and wearing night-vision goggles during their training flight.
Authorities are grounding other flights from the involved Army unit and will review training exercises in the area.
