Senate Hearing on Aviation Safety After Devastating Mid-Air Collision

The U.S. Senate Commerce Committee is set to hold a hearing with NTSB head Jennifer Homendy on February 12, following a catastrophic mid-air collision. The crash, which occurred in January 2025, revealed systemic deficiencies in the FAA, prompting actions towards air safety reform and improved aircraft tracking systems.

The U.S. Senate Commerce Committee is preparing to hold a hearing on February 12 featuring Jennifer Homendy, head of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). This follows a fatal mid-air collision in January 2025 that resulted in the death of 67 people, marking the worst U.S. aviation disaster since 2001.

The collision involved an American Airlines regional jet and an Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The NTSB identified systemic failures within the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as key contributors to the disaster. Lawmakers are pushing for a stalled air safety reform bill, which includes mandating a crucial airplane tracking system by the end of 2031.

The Senate Commerce Committee also advanced the nomination of John DeLeeuw, an American Airlines pilot and safety official, to the NTSB. The tragedy has spurred Congressional efforts to enhance air safety regulations, highlighting failings in both military and civilian aviation oversight.

(With inputs from agencies.)