The U.S. government acknowledged on Wednesday its involvement in the tragic collision between an airliner and a Black Hawk helicopter near Washington, D.C., resulting in the deaths of 67 individuals, marking the deadliest crash on U.S. soil in over 20 years.
In response to the initial lawsuit filed by a victim’s family, the government accepted partial liability for the crash, citing that the air traffic controller had violated procedures that night. The failure of the Army helicopter pilots to maintain proper vigilance and avoid the airline jet was also mentioned as a factor contributing to the crash.
While the lawsuit implicated American Airlines and its regional partner, PSA Airlines, both airlines have filed motions seeking dismissal. The government, however, refuted claims of negligence by air traffic controllers or officials from the Federal Aviation Administration or the Army.
The collision occurred when the helicopter crossed paths with the American Airlines regional jet while it was landing at Ronald Reagan National Airport, resulting in the recovery of 28 bodies from the Potomac River. The jet was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, while three soldiers were onboard the helicopter.
An attorney representing one of the victims’ families highlighted the government’s acknowledgment of responsibility for the tragedy, emphasizing the shared accountability of American Airlines and PSA Airlines in the incident.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is set to release its report on the crash’s cause early next year. Preliminary investigations have indicated several contributing factors, including the helicopter flying above the designated altitude limit and previous near-miss incidents in the vicinity.
The government’s filing confirmed its awareness of previous near-miss events involving Army-operated Black Hawk helicopters and aircraft traffic in the area around Washington, underscoring the need for improved safety measures in the region.