The tragic January 29, 2025 mid-air collision between a Blackhawk helicopter and American Airlines Flight 5342 took the lives of at least 64 passengers and the crew of 3 aboard the helicopter. The congested airspace around Reagan Washington National Airport requires flight crews and air traffic controllers to be aware of the air traffic, aircraft have proper collision avoidance systems and that control towers have adequate staffing to manage this busy area. Sadly, these elements were missing on Wednesday night, and this fatal collision occurred. To avoid future disasters like this one will require not only careful investigation into this incident, but also into the procedures which were in place for both the helicopter, tower and approach procedures followed that night. In addition, reasons why basic aviation operation rules regarding right of way for fixed wing versus rotorcraft were not abided by is also a question which needs answering.
Devers Miska Law extends our sincere condolences to all of the victims’ families and will continue to conduct their own investigation into the facts and circumstances that lead to this otherwise preventable accident.