Shocking new evidence in DC plane crash—Was the Black Hawk flying too high?

On January 29, 2025, a catastrophic mid-air collision occurred over the Potomac River near Washington, D.C., involving an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter. This tragic event resulted in the loss of all 67 individuals aboard both aircraft. As investigations progress, emerging data suggests that the Black Hawk helicopter may have been operating above its designated altitude, potentially contributing to the collision.

Who Was the Soldier Identified in the DC Plane Crash?

The U.S. Army has identified one of the soldiers involved in the crash as Captain Rebecca M. Lobach, 28, from Durham, North Carolina. Capt. Lobach served as an aviation officer since July 2019 and was assigned to the 12th Aviation Battalion at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Her family described her as kind, ambitious, and dedicated to her military career. She was also known for her role as a White House Military Social Aide.

Capt. Lobach was one of three Army personnel on board the Black Hawk. The two other soldiers previously identified were Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Loyd Eaves, 39, of Great Mills, Maryland, and Staff Sgt. Ryan Austin O’Hara, 28, of Lilburn, Georgia. Both had commendable service records and were experienced in military aviation operations.

What Does the Preliminary Data Reveal About the Aircrafts’ Altitudes?

Preliminary findings from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) suggest discrepancies in the reported altitudes of the two aircraft at the time of the collision. Data from the passenger jet’s flight recorder indicates an altitude of approximately 325 feet, while air traffic control data placed the Black Hawk helicopter at about 200 feet. The designated maximum altitude for the helicopter’s flight path was 200 feet, raising questions about whether it exceeded its operational limit.

Investigators are now focused on understanding why the helicopter may have been flying higher than allowed. While human error has not been ruled out, experts are examining whether weather conditions, mechanical issues, or miscommunication with air traffic control played a role.

How Is the NTSB Addressing the Altitude Discrepancies?

The NTSB is working to reconcile conflicting altitude reports by analyzing the helicopter’s black box data, which has suffered water damage. Investigators are also reviewing communications between air traffic controllers and the pilots in the moments before the crash.

Aviation analysts suggest that even a minor altitude deviation in congested airspace can increase the risk of collision. Given the proximity to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, the airspace is tightly regulated, making any deviation a potential safety hazard.

What Actions Has the FAA Taken in Response to the DC Plane Crash?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has responded to the incident by imposing new restrictions on helicopter flights near Reagan National Airport. The new measures aim to prevent similar accidents by enforcing stricter altitude compliance and increasing monitoring of helicopter movements in Washington, D.C.’s busy air corridor.

The FAA has also launched an internal review of air traffic control procedures in the area. This includes assessing workload distribution among controllers, examining radar coverage capabilities, and evaluating pilot compliance with existing regulations.

What Are the Political Reactions to the DC Plane Crash?

The collision has ignited political discussions about aviation safety. President Donald Trump weighed in on the tragedy, stating that the Black Hawk appeared to be “flying too high” and that the crash “looks like it should have been prevented.” He also criticized diversity hiring initiatives within the FAA, suggesting they may have contributed to the accident.

Trump’s remarks have sparked debate among lawmakers and aviation experts. While some have echoed concerns about air traffic control oversight, others have dismissed any connection between the incident and FAA hiring policies.

What Are the Ongoing Recovery Efforts Following the DC Plane Crash?

Recovery teams continue to work on retrieving wreckage and remains from the Potomac River. As of February 1, 2025, 42 bodies had been recovered, with 38 positively identified. The search for additional remains is ongoing, with divers and forensic teams assisting in the effort.

The NTSB’s investigation is expected to take months, with a final report providing detailed insights into the cause of the crash. Investigators will evaluate whether air traffic control staffing issues, equipment failures, or pilot decision-making played a role in the tragedy.

This devastating accident has reignited conversations about aviation safety, particularly in high-traffic airspace. Families of the victims continue to demand accountability, urging federal agencies to implement stronger measures to prevent similar disasters in the future.