URGENT UPDATE: Senators from both parties are demanding immediate changes to a critical defense bill, following alarming warnings from crash investigators and victims’ families. The legislation could roll back essential safety reforms linked to a tragic January 2023 incident, where a collision between an airliner and an Army helicopter led to 67 fatalities in Washington, D.C.
Just announced on Thursday, November 2, 2023, both Democratic Senator Maria Cantwell and Republican Senator Ted Cruz filed amendments aimed at removing concerning provisions that would allow military helicopters to operate without crucial location broadcasting systems. This legislation, passed by the House, is viewed by many as a significant safety threat.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy described the bill as a “significant safety setback,” emphasizing that it risks inviting a repeat of the deadly crash. The current bill includes exceptions for military helicopters, allowing them to navigate the crowded airspace around the nation’s capital without utilizing the ADS-B system, which became mandatory in March 2023.
In a powerful statement, Homendy said, “It represents an unacceptable risk to the flying public, to commercial and military aircraft, crews, and the residents in the region.” Her comments highlight the emotional weight of the issue as families of the victims continue to seek justice and accountability.
The proposed amendments aim to substitute these loopholes with strengthened safety requirements, emphasizing the need for transparency and expert consultation. “We owe it to the families to put into law actual safety improvements,” Cantwell and Cruz jointly asserted.
Victims’ families, particularly Tim and Sheri Lilley, whose son was the first officer on the ill-fated American Airlines flight, expressed deep concern. They criticized the bill for offering “a window dressing fix” that fails to address the real issues at hand. “It would allow for the setting aside of requirements with nothing more than a cursory risk assessment,” they stated.
As the Senate gears up to discuss the bill next week, the urgency is palpable. With Congress scheduled to recess for a holiday break at the end of the week, there is pressure to finalize the National Defense Authorization Act, which includes a 3.8% pay raise for military personnel and other priorities of the White House.
Despite these pressing concerns, it remains uncertain whether Republican leadership will permit any amendments to be considered. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has not yet responded to inquiries about the potential for changes.
With the clock ticking, families of victims and safety advocates are left anxiously awaiting the Senate’s actions. The upcoming discussions are crucial not only for legislative outcomes but also for the safety of air travel and the memories of those lost in the January crash.
As this story develops, we will continue to provide updates on the potential implications for military operations and air safety regulations across the United States.
