The families of those lost in the recent catastrophic plane crash that killed up to 67 people have begun to sue. They sued the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), U.S. Army, American Airlines and PSA Airlines. If confirmed, this incident would be the deadliest U.S. plane crash since 2001. It has exposed alarming weaknesses in aviation safety oversight and accountability, including those of federal regulators and the manufacturer.
The crash on January 29, when PSA Airlines flew Flight 5342 to Ronald Reagan International Airport. The flight data recorder revealed alarming information: the helicopter involved was flying between 80 to 100 feet higher than what the pilots believed, leading to the catastrophic collision with another aircraft. Additionally, the Black Hawk helicopter was allegedly flying far above the 200-foot altitude ceiling established for such flights.
Investigators found that the helicopter’s flight path was shockingly close. It had just 75 feet of separation from commercial aircraft landing on the secondary runway at Ronald Reagan International Airport. The lawsuit emphasizes that American Airlines and PSA Airlines neglected their duty to protect passengers by failing to implement adequate safety measures and training for pilots.
The families allege that both airlines were aware of numerous prior similar incidents. Specifically, they argue that helicopters have flown in an unsafe manner near commercial aircraft operating out of Reagan Airport. For starters, they say American Airlines and PSA Airlines did not adequately train their pilots on the helicopter paths. Not only that, they actively failed to follow through with steps required to reduce the risks involved.
Less than 19 seconds prior to the crash, PSA’s pilots were given an unmistakable warning of conflicting traffic in the area. This essential alert was provided at a crucial time right before the accident. They claim the pilots should have responded faster. They would have had to stop short earlier than they normally would and not at the last moment to prevent a fatal collision.
Through the lawsuit, we’re looking at other reasons that led to the crash. The primary contributing factor was the airline’s policies that allowed pilots to pick different runways that crossed helicopter traffic. The extreme scheduling of flights in the second half of each hour, which time stretched over an hour, must have exacerbated the problem. This led to greater congestion and risks in the airspace.
The families—and some of them still—have gone to court to hold these people accountable. They are demanding accountability and transparency from government regulators and private sector partners responsible for aviation safety. Our lawsuit continues to seek justice for all 67 lives lost. It’s instrumental in advocating for regulatory and enforcement reforms to ensure that future tragedies are avoided.
