Families of 67 killed in US aircraft crash mark first anniversary

Families and officials gathered to mark the first anniversary of the midair collision that killed 67 near Reagan National Airport, one day after NTSB testimony said the crash was preventable and set out safety recommendations.

Families and officials gathered Wednesday evening to mark the first anniversary of the midair collision that killed 67 people near Reagan National Airport. The memorial included music, portraits of victims, and formal honors for first responders. The gathering came one day after National Transportation Safety Board investigators testified about years of ignored warnings and near-misses. The NTSB described the crash as preventable and issued recommendations aimed at reducing the risk of similar accidents. Key points: - Sixty-seven people died in a midair collision on Jan. 29, 2025, involving an American Airlines jet and an Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport. - NTSB testimony reported years of ignored warnings and near-misses and characterised the accident as preventable. - Families and officials held a memorial and recognised first responders; a plaque on the Potomac River was announced. - The NTSB concluded with safety recommendations; some reforms rely on action by Congress, the Army and the administration, and a bill to require advanced locator systems was described as close to final passage by a senator. Summary: Families marked the anniversary with a music-filled ceremony and official acknowledgments of the victims and those who responded. The NTSB has issued recommendations and further action depends on legislative and agency decisions that remain pending.