Senators Demand Answers: Military Helicopter Safety Under Scrutiny

Two senators have called on the U.S. Army to justify its failure to use a key safety system during helicopter training flights after a devastating crash between a Black Hawk helicopter and a commercial jet, killing 67. The incident raises concerns about military aircraft not utilizing ADS-B technology.

In the wake of a fatal collision between a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines regional jet, two senators are demanding answers from the military. The crash, which resulted in 67 casualties, has brought attention to the Army's failure to employ a vital safety system, ADS-B, in its training flights.

Spearheading the inquiry are Senate Commerce Committee Chair Ted Cruz and aviation subcommittee leader Senator Jerry Moran. They have urged the Army Aviation leadership to testify and address these issues at a March 27 hearing, emphasizing the need for improved safety protocols in military aviation.

As civilian aircraft are mandated to use ADS-B technology to prevent collisions, lawmakers are putting pressure on the military to adhere to the same standards. The National Transportation Safety Board and various aviation authorities have been called upon to scrutinize and testify on the ongoing concerns.

(With inputs from agencies.)