D.C. Air Disaster: Black Hawk Collision Sparks Safety Debate Amid Tragic Loss of 67 Lives
February 1, 2025The Black Hawk unit involved in the D.C. crash was conducting training for its 'continuity of government' mission, which focuses on evacuating government officials during emergencies.
In the aftermath of the D.C. crash, the north-south helicopter corridor used by the Black Hawk has been closed for investigation, while first responders search for remains and debris.
Tragically, all 67 individuals aboard both the passenger jet and the army helicopter lost their lives, including 14 members of the US figure skating team returning from a camp.
The army has identified two crew members from the helicopter involved in the crash, while the name of a third crew member is withheld at the family's request.
Retired Lt Col Darin Gaub emphasized that military helicopter flights in D.C. adhere to high safety standards, suggesting that the recent crash was an anomaly.
A recent collision between a passenger airliner and an army Black Hawk in Washington, D.C., has sparked renewed discussions about helicopter training and safety protocols in crowded airspace.
Defense Secretary acknowledged that a 'mistake' contributed to the crash, highlighting the routine dangers associated with military operations.
A preliminary FAA report revealed that one air traffic controller was managing responsibilities typically assigned to two individuals at the time of the incident.
Despite the recent tragedies, the military operates around 2,100 H-60 Black Hawk helicopters, which statistically have a lower mishap rate compared to other military helicopters.
Pilots often rely on visual references and night-vision goggles, which can complicate visibility and depth perception during low-altitude flights at night.
This incident follows a previous crash in March 2023, where two US Army Black Hawk helicopters collided in Kentucky during a nighttime training mission, resulting in the deaths of nine service members.
The Kentucky crash is part of a troubling trend, with a dozen fatal Black Hawk training incidents recorded since 2014, claiming 47 service members' lives.
Summary based on 1 source
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Source
The Guardian • Feb 1, 2025
DC plane crash latest in series of US army helicopter training accidents