Army Finds D.C. Crash Failures

The Army made public an internal investigation into the January 29, 2025, midair collision near Reagan National Airport. The release followed months of pressure from victims’ families. The crash between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and American Airlines Flight 5342 killed all 67 people aboard the two aircraft. The Army said the crew was qualified and the helicopter had no mechanical failure. Investigators also found Army technical and organizational shortcomings that raised risks. The report cited broken radio transmissions, night-vision limits, gusty conditions, incomplete traffic advisories and missing ADS-B location data. Families said redactions left questions unanswered. The Army recommended safety changes, while congressional proposals remain stalled.