On 29 January 2025, a tragic midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport claimed 67 lives.
An Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines regional jet operating as flight AA5342, collided over the Potomac River.
A New York Times investigation, published on 27 April 27 has uncovered critical details of the moments prior to the collision. The Black Hawk pilot, Capt. Rebecca Lobach, failed to follow a co-pilot’s instruction to change course, contributing to the disaster.
January 29 Fatal Reagan Airport Collision
The collision occurred during a US Army Black Hawk training flight. The helicopter, on a night-vision goggle check ride, was authorized to fly at 200 feet. However, it climbed to 278–300 feet, directly into the path of the American Airlines jet.
The jet, a CRJ, was descending on final approach for landing. In total, the two aircraft carried 67 passengers and crew, all of whom perished in the crash. Debris fell into the Potomac River, shocking the Washington D.C. area.
Pilot Error: A Critical Mistake
The New York Times report highlighted a pivotal moment. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Eaves, the co-pilot, instructed Capt. Lobach to turn left to avoid the jet on approach. Lobach, however, did not comply with the instruction.
The reason remains unclear, but the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating. Eaves was evaluating Lobach during the flight, which may have affected cockpit dynamics. This failure to act appears to be a key factor in the collision.
Air Traffic Control’s Role
Air traffic control (ATC) also played a part in the fatal accident. ATC alerted the Black Hawk crew about the jet twice—two minutes and 12 seconds before the crash.
They instructed the helicopter to “pass behind the CRJ.” The crew responded, claiming they had the jet in sight and requesting visual separation. However, they were on a different radio frequency, possibly causing miscommunication. This error further complicated efforts to avoid the collision.
Night Vision and Altimeter Issues
The Black Hawk was using night-vision goggles, which may have limited the pilots’ view. The NTSB also flagged a potential altimeter issue.
The helicopter’s altitude readings were inconsistent, suggesting it was higher than reported. These technical factors, combined with pilot error, created a deadly scenario. The investigation continues to explore these elements.
NTSB Investigation and FAA Response
The NTSB’s preliminary report, which was cited by the New York Times, noted the complexity of the incident. A full report into the accident may take up to a year to be completed.
Meanwhile, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has taken airspace rectification action. Non-essential helicopter traffic around Reagan Airport is now restricted during flight operations when certain runways are active. This change aims to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the busy D.C. airspace.
Summary
The Washington Reagan Airport collision has raised questions about military training flights near civilian airports. The NTSB is examining altimeter accuracy, pilot training, and ATC procedures.
Until the final report is released, the findings remain preliminary. This tragedy has underscored the need for greater oversight of flight procedures in shared and congested airspace environments.
The FAA is continuing with a program of assessing other airports with potentially similar airspace issues.
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