Sweeping Reforms in Aviation Safety After Fatal Crash

The U.S. Senate Commerce Committee has unanimously greenlit a crucial piece of aviation safety legislation. This move follows a fatal crash between an American Airlines regional jet and an Army helicopter that took 67 lives, reigniting calls for reform.

The newly approved bill mandates aircraft operators to integrate advanced ADS-B tracking technology in their fleets by 2031. It also imposes stringent safety measures, particularly increasing oversight of mixed jet and helicopter traffic and ensuring safer flight routes near commercial service airports.

Senate Commerce Committee chair Ted Cruz emphasized its importance, stating it addresses a dangerous loophole that previously allowed military aircraft to operate without clear communication of their positions. ADS-B will now be required for military helicopters near civilian aircraft. Despite past calls for action, the FAA had delayed addressing military helicopter incidents near Washington Reagan National Airport.