FAA delays adoption of ADS-B In after deadly 2025 air collision, Congress urged to legislate

The deadliest U.S. aviation accident in over two decades occurred in January 2025 when an American Airlines regional jet struck an Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The NTSB reported that the safety system ADS-B In could have alerted the aircraft pilot 59 seconds before impact and the helicopter crew 48 seconds prior. Despite this, the FAA has not agreed to require the system and says it may proceed without congressional action, though it seeks guidance from lawmakers.

In a recent letter, the FAA noted it is reviewing helicopter routes in six major cities and has issued a directive to keep aircraft and helicopters separate, but it did not specify plans to mandate ADS-B In. NTSB chair Jennifer Homendy and families of the deceased will again appeal to Congress on Tuesday to pass legislation aimed at preventing similar tragedies.