A midair collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and an Army Black Hawk helicopter killed all 67 on board, the deadliest aviation disaster in the U.S. since 2001. Following this tragedy, the FAA has indefinitely restricted helicopter flights around Reagan National Airport due to a series of near misses reported by pilots. Investigators are examining the helicopter’s altitude and air traffic control procedures, with indications of systemic risks associated with military helicopters operating near commercial air lanes. The NTSB continues its investigation, while military officials defend the necessity of such training operations.