A recent briefing revealed critical details about the midair collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines passenger jet near Reagan National Airport. Senator Ted Cruz reported that the helicopter's advanced tracking system, known as ADS-B, was deactivated during the training mission, despite being permissible for military aircraft. This system, which enhances surveillance and communication between aircraft and air traffic control, offers greater accuracy than standard radar transponders. The absence of ADS-B data raises questions about the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident that claimed 67 lives.

Salvage crews retrieving part of the Army Black Hawk helicopter. (AP/Jose Luis Magana)

Emphasizing the importance of a thorough investigation, Senator Cruz stated the need to understand the cause of the accident and implement preventive measures. The NTSB is conducting a comprehensive analysis of the events leading to the collision.

Wreckage of American Airlines Flight 5342 being retrieved from the Potomac River. (Leigh Green for Fox News Digital)

Following the incident, the FAA initiated a review of airports with high volumes of mixed helicopter and airplane traffic, a concern previously raised by Senator Maria Cantwell. The FAA has also implemented temporary flight restrictions near Reagan National Airport, prioritizing police, medical, and presidential transport helicopters and prohibiting civilian aircraft from sharing the same airspace during these operations.

Image capturing the midair collision. (EarthCam)

NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy revealed preliminary findings suggesting the Black Hawk crew was likely using night-vision goggles. The absence of any verbal indication on the cockpit voice recorder that they were flying unaided supports this theory. Homendy clarified that the helicopter was engaged in a combined night-vision goggle annual check ride, a procedure used to assess pilot proficiency.

Investigators examining the helicopter wreckage. (NTSB)