A mid-air collision between an American Airlines jet and an Army helicopter in Washington, D.C., resulted in the tragic loss of all nine lives on board. Aviation experts attribute the incident to the complex air traffic patterns in the area, citing the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport's high volume of traffic and the frequent presence of military aircraft. While the exact cause is still under investigation, authorities indicate the jet was on a routine landing approach when the helicopter entered its path. Despite concerns about air traffic controller shortages in Canada, experts assure that flight volumes are carefully managed to prevent overstretching of air traffic control resources.
MONTREAL — An aviation expert says the mid-air crash in Washington, D.C., Wednesday night is likely the result of unique air traffic patterns in the area and shouldn't cause wider fears over air safety. John Gradek, who teaches aviation management at McGill University, says the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport has possibly the busiest runway in the country while military aircraft also frequently fly in the area to make it a higher-risk airspace.
The collision between an American Airlines jet carrying 64 people and an Army helicopter carrying three soldiers is believed to have killed everyone on board both aircraft. There was no immediate word on the cause of the collision, but officials say the jet was making a routine landing when the helicopter flew into its path. Gradek says air traffic controllers told the helicopter about the plane and it would have been the responsibility of the helicopter pilot to avoid the jet. He says that while there are concerns about air traffic controller shortages in Canada, flight volumes are managed so they're never overstretched. -- With files from The Associated Press. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 30, 2025. The Canadian Pres
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Mid-Air Crash in Washington D.C. Likely Due to Complex Air TrafficAn aviation expert believes the tragic mid-air collision involving an American Airlines jet and an Army helicopter in Washington, D.C., was likely caused by the area's unique air traffic patterns. The Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, known for its high traffic volume and frequent military flights, is considered a higher-risk airspace. While the investigation into the collision's cause is ongoing, officials state the jet was performing a routine landing when the helicopter entered its path.
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