The families of those who perished in a tragic collision over Washington, D.C., have initiated legal action against the government and the involved airlines. The lawsuit, filed by the widow of Casey Crafton from Connecticut, who is now raising three young children alone, accuses the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Army, American Airlines, and its regional partner PSA Airlines, of negligence. This legal challenge follows a devastating incident where a commercial airliner collided with a U.S. Army helicopter, resulting in 67 fatalities. It marks the country’s deadliest aviation accident since 2001.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) had previously noted several contributing factors to the crash, although a final report pinpointing the precise cause is still pending. The Black Hawk helicopter involved was reportedly flying above the designated 200-foot altitude limit. However, even at the correct level, the flight path would have allowed only a minimal separation between the helicopter and planes using Ronald Reagan International Airport’s secondary runway. Data revealed that the helicopter was indeed flying 80 to 100 feet higher than indicated by its altimeter at the time of the collision.
The NTSB also highlighted the FAA’s failure in recognizing a pattern of numerous near-misses at the busy airport. Concerns regarding helicopter traffic had been raised yet seemingly ignored, with air traffic controllers allegedly tasked with managing heavy aircraft traffic with minimal separation. This busy environment likely contributed to the incident.
The lawsuit claims that PSA Airlines did not adequately prepare their pilots, despite being aware of several close encounters involving helicopters near Reagan airport. The legal document also notes that PSA was aware of the risks associated with alternative runway usage that intersect with helicopter routes.
In response, American Airlines released a statement denying responsibility, asserting that the collision was due to the Army helicopter operating above its designated altitude. American Airlines emphasized its longstanding commitment to safety and pledged cooperation with the ongoing NTSB investigation.
This tragic event has deeply affected many, among the victims were skaters from the Skating Club of Boston returning from a prestigious event, a hunting group from Kansas, members of a steamfitters’ union, students from Virginia, and nationals from China. A tribute event organized by the figure skating community managed to raise $1.2 million for the victims’ families, illustrating the community’s resilience and determination to support those affected during such a difficult time.