DCA Tragedy 2025-01-29
Regulations are written in blood.
ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — An American Airlines jet carrying 60 passengers and four crew members collided Wednesday with an Army helicopter while landing at Ronald Reagan National Airport near Washington, prompting a large search-and-rescue operation in the nearby Potomac River.
Our hearts cry out for the many families.
Out of deference, I will keep my comments brief.
Capt. Sullenberger acutely notes that an official investigation by the NTSB takes a year to properly identify and assess causes. Every day, many things do go right, uncelebrated.
Our president must learn to delegate to trustworthy advisors, if we are to remain one people. I agree with two recent policy changes (eliminating "air safety committee" scapegoats and DEI requirements) however we the public trust NTSB experts to do their jobs.
EDIT 2025-01-30: Blancolirio explains errors of the helicopter pilot and unclear communications by ATC.
In my opinion, if ATC did not err, regulations must be updated (either to restrict military operations outside of military airspace, or to require clear communication).
EDIT 2025-01-31: Do rules not apply to military pilots near D.C.?
Image credit: Javardh