DC Crash: Altimeter Failures, Ignored Warnings, and Aviation Safety Concerns
The NTSB hearings regarding the Black Hawk and passenger jet collision revealed that the helicopter’s altimeter was faulty and that controllers had previously warned the FAA about the dangers posed by helicopter traffic. The investigation found a discrepancy in altimeter readings, and the FAA was criticized for not addressing safety concerns. Moreover, the FAA failed to recognize a history of near-miss incidents. The final report is expected next year, but it is unlikely that one specific cause will be identified.
John Q. Hosedrinker