Families of the 67 deceased in an airliner collision with an Army helicopter are demanding legislative reform to implement advanced aircraft locator systems. Despite expert recommendations over the last two decades, Congressional action remains uncertain.
The Senate Commerce Committee has scheduled a hearing to reiterate the necessity of an additional system that receives data such as aircraft locations, which could have prevented the January 2025 midair collision.
This tragic accident resulted in the loss of all aboard the helicopter and an American Airlines jet, which included 28 figure skaters.
The full Senate has shown support for the ROTOR Act, mandating both broadcasting (ADS-B out) and receiving (ADS-B in) systems for all aircraft flying around busy airports, yet the process is complicated by House committee priorities.
If equipped, the ADS-B in systems could have provided crucial position data and warnings, potentially saving lives—information that will be highlighted in the upcoming hearing, solely attended by NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy.
In the aftermath of the tragic event, regulatory changes by the FAA include restrictions on helicopter operations during certain air traffic conditions to enhance safety.
However, the cost of implementing these systems is a concern for regional airlines and smaller aircraft operators. Advocates argue that the benefits far outweigh these costs, echoing sentiments from victims' families who believe comprehensive measures could prevent future tragedies.
As families grapple with the anniversary of their losses, they are determined to advocate for legislative change—to ensure another tragedy is avoided and that lives like those of young figure skaters will not be lost to unmitigated risks.
