In brief
The U.S. government's admission of liability in January's fatal collision between a helicopter and an airliner emphasizes the need for accountability in aviation safety. The tragedy, which resulted in the loss of 67 lives, raises questions about procedural adherence by the FAA and the Army while also implicating the airlines involved. As legal proceedings continue, families of the victims are pushing for further investigation to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable.
WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. government admitted on Wednesday that both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Army were involved in the circumstances surrounding the crash last January, where a Black Hawk helicopter collided with an airliner near the nation’s capital, leading to the deaths of 67 individuals.The acknowledgment came as part of the government’s response to the first lawsuit filed by a victim’s family, highlighting that the air traffic controller’s procedural violations contributed significantly to the incident. The filing also implicated the pilots of both the jet and the helicopter, suggesting a multifaceted causation behind the crash. Notably, American Airlines and its regional partner, PSA Airlines, have sought to dismiss these allegations.During the tragic event, at least 28 bodies were retrieved from the icy waters of the Potomac River after the helicopter entered the path of an American Airlines regional jet that was landing at Ronald Reagan National Airport. The plane was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, while three soldiers were on board the helicopter.Attorney Robert Clifford, representing the Crafton family, expressed their intent to meticulously review the government’s filings. He emphasized that although the government admits partial liability, it recognizes that other factors contributed to the crash’s occurrence. Clifford stated that his team remains committed to thoroughly investigating the incident to ensure that all parties responsible are held accountable, and they are patiently awaiting further findings from an NTSB hearing scheduled for January 26.
