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The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is launching a three-day hearing on the deadly plane crash that took place in Washington, D.C., in January. The crash, which involved an Army helicopter and an American Airlines passenger jet, claimed the lives of 67 people.
Wreckage is seen in the Potomac River near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, on Thursday, Jan. 30. (Petty Officer 1st Class Brandon Giles, U.S. Coast Guard via AP)
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The NTSB is expected to question witnesses and investigators about the actions of the Federal Aviation Administration, air traffic controllers and the Army, according to the Associated Press. The outlet noted that it’s likely too early for NTSB to conclusively determine what caused the devastating crash.
In normal operating conditions, air traffic control for helicopters and planes at Reagan National Airport is handled by two operators. However, on Wednesday, the duties were combined, leaving just one person to manage both duties, The New York Times reported.
National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy speaks during a press conference at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, in Arlington, Va., as NTSB member Todd Inman looks on. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)
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The outlet, citing a source who was not authorized to speak publicly, noted that there is usually only one air traffic controller after 9:30 PM, but a supervisor let one leave early. The midair collision that left 67 dead occurred just before 9:00 PM local time.
A crane is seen on Monday, Feb. 3, near the site of the plane crash near Reagan National Airport. (Fox News)
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However, a person familiar with the matter explained to Fox News Digital that the positions get combined regularly if air controllers have to step away from the console for breaks, or if they are involved in a shift change. Controllers may also have to step away when air traffic is light, the person explained, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss internal procedures.