Black Hawk, American Airlines collision kills 67 near D.C.

Investigators are examining the January 29 collision between a Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines jet that resulted in the deaths of all 67 occupants. Key findings suggest that the helicopter crew may have missed critical air traffic control instructions due to an interrupted radio transmission, which coincided with the pilots pressing the microphone key. NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy reported that cockpit recordings indicate the crew was likely unaware they needed to adjust their flight path. Additionally, there are concerns about inaccurate altitude readings, as discrepancies were noted between the pilots' reports and the helicopter's altimeter data. The helicopter was operating under night vision, which could have further complicated visibility. The final NTSB report is expected to take over a year to complete as investigations continue into these factors.