Senator Cruz plans new aviation safety bill after deadly DC airport crash

NTSB Chairman Jennifer Homendy and FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau previously testified before the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation in March. Homendy stated:

"Between October 2021 and December 2024 there were over 15,000 close proximity events between commercial aircraft and helicopters at DCA.”

The January collision involved a Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk piloted by Chief Warrant Officer 2 Eaves carrying three Army aircrew members and a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet piloted by Jonathan Campos with copilot Samuel Lilley. All passengers and crew—64 aboard the jet—died in the crash. Among those lost were 28 athletes from the US national figure skating series as well as domestic and international travelers headed for DCA.

Following another incident on May 1, 2025—when two commercial flights diverted due to a nearby US Army helicopter—the FAA imposed further restrictions on helicopter operations near DCA. At least one route was closed permanently for safety reasons.

Concerns about airspace congestion around DCA have persisted for years. At the time of January’s collision, air traffic control staffing levels were below normal standards according to confirmation from US Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy via BBC reporting. In response to these challenges nationwide—including staff shortages and equipment breakdowns—the FAA has begun using AI and machine learning tools to analyze data related to such incidents.

The upcoming hearing will present findings from these analyses as officials seek comprehensive reforms aimed at improving aviation safety at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.