From Valleynewslive · · 1m 20s
Crash families press Congress on ROTOR Act
Victims’ families want aircraft warning tech mandated after a deadly D.C. midair crash.
In brief
Victims’ families want aircraft warning tech mandated after a deadly D.C. midair crash. The families’ core demand is simple: require ADS-B In on civilian and military aircraft before another crew loses precious warning time. Originally reported by Valleynewslive.
Families demand action
It has been 594 days since a midair crash over Washington, D.C., killed all 67 people aboard. Victims’ families say the safety fixes still have not come.
“Families of the victims say nothing has been done since to prevent another tragedy.”
Keepsakes came home
Thousands of recovered items were returned from the Potomac River, including a teddy bear that belonged to a girl who died in the crash.
“A teddy bear made it home after the midair collision in January 2025. The little girl holding it did not.”
The bill fell short
Families want Congress to pass the ROTOR Act after it failed in the House by one vote in February. The bill would require ADS-B In warning technology.
“The legislation failed by a single vote in the House in February.”
Forty seconds mattered
The NTSB found ADS-B In could have warned Flight 5342’s crew about the helicopter about 59 seconds before impact, roughly 40 seconds earlier than they had.
“I can tell you they did not get them.”
Military aircraft included
Families also want Pentagon accountability. They say military aircraft, including Black Hawk helicopters, should follow the same technology requirement.
Next push awaits
Supporters plan to push the ROTOR Act during the lame-duck session after the November elections. A civil lawsuit against American Airlines is headed toward an April 2027 trial.
What to remember
The families’ core demand is simple: require ADS-B In on civilian and military aircraft before another crew loses precious warning time.
