(DailyChive.com) – The families affected by the tragic crash at Reagan National Airport demand answers from the FAA, following a damning NTSB report revealing a history of near misses.
At a Glance
- Families express frustration with FAA after report of over 15,000 near misses.
- Senate hearing underscores preventability of the crash involving American Airlines and an Army helicopter.
- Victims’ representatives argue lapses in safety and accountability.
- NTSB and FAA criticized for not acting on known safety data before the crash.
Report Spurs Outcry Among Victims’ Families
Family members of the victims of the January crash at Reagan National Airport are expressing deep dissatisfaction after a National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report revealed alarming safety lapses. The report highlighted more than 15,000 near misses involving flights at the airport over recent years, incidents previously known to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The tragic collision between an American Airlines plane and an Army Blackhawk helicopter resulted in 67 deaths. Angry relatives of the deceased insist that proper safety measures could have prevented the disaster.
A Senate Subcommittee hearing debated these findings, suggesting that the crash was indeed preventable. Dailey Crafton, whose brother was a victim, lambasted the lack of accountability and safety protocol breaches. Crafton’s remarks reflected the profound disillusionment felt by many affected families.
Calls for Accountability Are Growing Louder
Tracy Brammeier, representing several victims’ families, along with Clifford Law Offices, has called for accountability from the bodies responsible for these oversights. Clifford Law Offices plans to lodge significant legal claims against federal entities. Robert A. Clifford expressed regret at the inaction by officials and insisted on pursuing legal avenues following the necessary waiting period. The NTSB Chairman also pointed out that “Between October 2021 and December 2024 there were over 15,000 close proximity events between commercial aircraft and helicopters at DCA”.
“The failure to share details about near midair collisions, or to perform trend analysis on the history of such incidents, or otherwise take action to address the high number of occurrences, is completely unacceptable.” – Tracy Brammeier.
Senator Ted Cruz demanded the release of pertinent documentation from Brigadier General Matthew Braman, emphasizing the need for transparency. Senator Cruz has threatened additional measures if such documentation is not provided. Meanwhile, action is being undertaken to investigate further, with the NTSB aiming to conclude its studies within a year.
FAA and Army Under Scrutiny
FAA Acting Administrator Chris Rocheleau acknowledged the FAA’s failure in preventing the collision. This confession wasn’t enough to placate the victims’ families, who demand that the FAA implement serious reforms. The FAA is now employing AI measures and adjusting regulatory frameworks to ensure heightened air safety. In parallel, the army’s helicopter operations are under examination for potential malfunctions, including issues related to transmission gaps in critical data systems.
“I was surprised at the lapses of safety protocols that led to this crash” – Dailey Crafton.
Victims’ families remain committed to memorializing their loved ones by pushing for accountability and enhanced protection of public safety. Legal proceedings seek to bring proper attention to the gaps in safety oversight that led to such a catastrophic event.
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