US Admits Liability in Chopper-Jet Crash Over Potomac River

Core Points - The US government has acknowledged liability for damages resulting from a deadly collision between an Army helicopter and an American Airlines jetliner, which occurred on January 29, killing 67 people [1][2]. Summary by Sections Incident Details - The collision involved an American CRJ-700 jet and a Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, occurring as the plane approached Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Virginia. The jet was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, while the helicopter had three individuals on a training mission [3]. Legal Proceedings - Family members of the victims have filed lawsuits against the US government and American Airlines, including its subsidiary PSA Airlines. The Justice Department's filing stated that the US breached its duty of care, contributing to the accident [2][4]. Responses from Involved Parties - American Airlines has declined to comment on the recent filing but referred to its motion to dismiss the case, arguing that the proper legal recourse lies against the US government rather than the airline [5]. - The FAA has deferred questions to the Justice Department, which has not provided comments on the matter. The US Army has indicated it cannot comment further due to ongoing legal proceedings but looks forward to sharing implemented changes post-investigation [5]. Ongoing Investigations - The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is conducting an independent investigation into the collision, which will not be influenced by the civil litigation. The NTSB has stated that its findings and recommendations will remain separate from the Department of Justice's determinations [6]. Safety Measures - Following the collision, the FAA has increased safety measures at Reagan Airport and restricted non-essential helicopter operations due to heightened public concern over aviation safety [7].