Army Helicopter’s Tracking System was Deactivated Before Washington Crash, Per NYT Report

According to Senator Ted Cruz, who spoke with the New York Times, the Army helicopter that collided with a passenger jet in Washington last week had its tracking technology turned off during the crash. This technology enables air traffic controllers to track aircraft more accurately and efficiently.

Republican Senator Cruz serves on the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, which had a confidential briefing regarding the crash with officials from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board.

The NYT reported Thursday that Cruz raised concerns about the Black Hawk’s tracking system being off during the training mission.

Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) technology, as described by the New York Times, provides real-time aircraft tracking by broadcasting its position, altitude, and speed. This supplements radar tracking, which can experience delays of several seconds, thus adding an important safety layer.

Last week, a tragic collision over the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., involved a helicopter and an American Airlines regional jet, resulting in 67 fatalities. This marked the deadliest U.S. air disaster in over 20 years. Witnesses described a horrific scene as the aircraft crashed, prompting emergency responders to recover victims and investigate the incident. The tragedy has raised concerns about air traffic safety and spurred discussions on regulatory improvements, leaving families in mourning and seeking answers.