WASHINGTON – On Friday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) implemented measures to limit helicopter operations near Reagan National Airport as search and salvage teams continued their work following the tragic collision between a passenger aircraft and a U.S. Army helicopter that resulted in 67 fatalities.

As reported by Reuters and other sources referencing an unnamed FAA official, only police and medical helicopters are now permitted to fly between the airport and nearby bridges to avert further incidents. The Black Hawk helicopter involved in the fatal accident was on a designated route over the Potomac River when it collided with the American Airlines flight.

On Friday, divers returned to the frigid waters of the Potomac River to search for debris from the aircraft, assisting the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in its investigation into the accident’s cause. Investigators successfully retrieved the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder from the passenger plane, while efforts continue to locate one recorder from the Black Hawk helicopter.

NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy stated that authorities are committed to a thorough investigation and promised an “all-encompassing government effort.”

As investigations continue, families around the world are mourning their loved ones lost in this tragedy. Among the victims of this collision were a pilot excited for an upcoming wedding, a student returning to school after attending a funeral, an attorney celebrating her birthday, a Philippine police colonel, a group of teen figure skaters with their parents and coaches, and two individuals from China.

FAA Implements Restrictions on Helicopter Routes Near Reagan National Airport

The newly established helicopter restrictions around the airport prohibit most helicopters from utilizing parts of two routes or corridors between the airport and the bridges over the Potomac River, the site of the collision.

The airspace around Washington is typically congested due to the presence of three commercial airports and multiple military installations. In particular, the Potomac corridor is bustling with both airliners and helicopters.

President Donald Trump Claims Helicopter was ‘Flying Too High’

President Trump offered his thoughts on the cause of the crash on Friday, suggesting via Truth Social that the helicopter was “flying too high.”

He stated, “The Black Hawk helicopter was way above the 200-foot limit; this isn’t complicated to understand, is it?” He did not provide any evidence to support his assertions, mirroring his comments from the previous day.

The NTSB has just started its investigation into what caused the collision. Officials expect to release a preliminary report within 30 days of the event.

Federal Mortuary and Mental Health Teams Activated after Plane-Helicopter Collision

Following the incident at Reagan National Airport, a team from the federal mortuary and medical examiners has been dispatched to assist local officials in recovering bodies from the Potomac River and identifying the deceased.

At the request of the NTSB, the Mortuary Operational Response Team (DMORT) is providing assistance to the DC Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, which includes collecting medical records, DNA samples, and fingerprints.

According to the Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response, DMORT supplies forensic specialists, pathologists, forensic dentists, dental aides, funeral directors, and other experts for “technical assistance and personnel to recover and identify the remains of disaster victims.”

Immediately after the crash, the administration dispatched tactical medical professionals to support emergency responders along with personnel from ASPR’s Disaster Behavioral Health Team. “The team conducted a quick behavioral health needs assessment that (DC) officials will utilize to allocate resources for the psychological needs of family members,” ASPR announced.

John Knox, the principal deputy assistant secretary for preparedness and response, expressed that the agency “is honored to provide additional help and expertise that local, state, and federal authorities may request during a tragedy like this.”

Temporary Ground Stop Enforced at Reagan National Airport

A temporary ground stop was issued at Reagan National Airport on Friday morning, as stated by the FAA.

The FAA informed that departures were halted due to airport congestion until 8:45 a.m.

The airport had opened again on Thursday at 11 a.m., having canceled over 500 flights throughout the day. By 9 a.m. Friday, 65 flights departing and arriving had been canceled, and one of the busy airport’s runways remained closed due to the collision.

Grief Felt in the ‘Air Capital’ of the World

The tragic accident involving the plane and helicopter has drawn attention to Wichita, recognized globally as the “air capital of the world,” highlighting its rich aviation heritage.

For the inhabitants of Wichita, where American Eagle flight 5342 originated, the effects of this crash hit hard. Many residents work in the aviation sector, creating a collective sense of connection to the industry and its storied past in the city.

During the 1920s, Wichita’s 16 manufacturers produced over 120 aircraft weekly, according to the local visitor’s bureau. Currently, Textron Aviation, which produces Beechcraft and Cessna planes, is based in Wichita, as well as Spirit AeroSystems – a key manufacturing component for Boeing. Both Textron Aviation and Spirit AeroSystems are among the largest employers in the city.

Mayor Lily Wu stated during an emotional press conference, “This is a terrible tragedy that will forever connect those in Washington, D.C., with Wichita, Kansas.”
− Alice Mannette

Philippine National Police Officer Among Collision Victims

A spokesperson for the Philippine National Police confirmed that a Col. Pergentino Malabed, chief of the supply management division, was on board the ill-fated passenger plane and lost his life in the collision.

Malabed was traveling for official duties at the time of the accident, as stated by the agency, which highlighted his dedication to protecting both the police force and the nation.

The Philippine National Police expressed heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, stating, “His untimely death is a tremendous loss to the PNP, where he served with honor and integrity throughout his career. We are committed to supporting them during this challenging time.”

Donald Trump’s Remarks on the Deadly Collision

While addressing the media from the White House, President Donald Trump speculated on the cause of the plane-helicopter crash, questioning the helicopter’s altitude and laying blame on his two Democratic

Former President Trump attributed the recent air traffic control incident to the hiring practices of previous administrations, particularly emphasizing a focus on diversity in hiring, which he alleged has compromised the quality of recruitment for air traffic controllers.

He commented, “The FAA is currently seeking individuals with serious intellectual disabilities, mental health issues, and other physical or mental conditions as part of a diversity and inclusion initiative detailed on the agency’s website.” However, he did not provide any concrete evidence to link these hiring practices, from the Biden and Obama eras, or the aspects of race, gender, or ability, to the cause of the crash.

Trump further suggested that the helicopter crew “should have been aware of their surroundings” and questioned, “What was the helicopter doing in that area?” He remarked that there were “pilot problems” related to the helicopter “since it was a perfectly clear night.” The official cause of the crash has yet to be determined.

– Michael Collins, Bart Jansen, Joey Garrison, and Deborah Barfield Berry

Concerns Over Air Traffic Control Staffing

The staffing situation at Reagan National Airport is under significant examination after various news reports indicated that one air traffic controller was managing both helicopters and commercial flights during the incident. According to the New York Times and NBC News, an FAA report revealed that such responsibilities usually require two controllers.

Reagan National Airport is recognized as the busiest airport for business travel in the nation. In recent years, dwindling numbers of air traffic controllers, incidents of near collisions, and an increase in direct flight operations at the airport have raised serious safety concerns.

In response to inquiries, the FAA directed questions to the NTSB, which is overseeing the investigation. The FAA stated, “We cannot provide comments on ongoing investigations. The FAA will promptly implement any necessary actions based on findings from the investigation.”

Reports: Another Flight Had to Abort Landing Prior to Crash

Just one day before the tragic collision between an American Airlines flight and an Army helicopter near Washington D.C., another passenger flight had to abandon its landing at Ronald Reagan National Airport upon spotting a helicopter in its intended flight path, as reported by The Washington Post and CNN.

The Post, referencing an audio recording from air traffic control, disclosed that Republic Airways Flight 4514 was compelled to “execute a second approach due to a helicopter appearing in its flight path.” The aircraft, which was traveling from Connecticut, had descended to around 1,600 feet when the helicopter was at an approximate altitude of 300 feet, according to CNN.

– Charles Ventura
Contributing: Reuters