Families affected by the 2025 midair collision involving an American Airlines aircraft and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter are advocating for significant safety reforms in aviation technology. The crash, which resulted in 67 deaths, highlighted the importance of surveillance technology that could alert pilots to nearby aircraft. Legislators in Washington have introduced competing bills aiming to enhance aircraft tracking systems.
One proposal, the ROTOR Act, seeks to mandate the use of Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) In for aircraft operating in busy airspace. This system allows aircraft to receive real-time data from other planes, improving situational awareness. The bill passed the Senate but failed in the House, drawing criticism from safety advocates including the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which supports comprehensive implementation of safety recommendations.
Another bill, the ALERT Act, was introduced in the House by Representatives Rick Larsen, Adam Smith, and others. This legislation emphasizes a performance-based approach rather than technology-specific mandates, aiming to respond to all of the NTSB’s safety recommendations. However, the NTSB has expressed concerns that the bill does not fully require aircraft to be able to receive ADS-B In data, raising doubts about its effectiveness.
Experts and family members emphasize that the lack of mandated surveillance technology in the aircraft involved hindered timely response, contributing to the tragedy. As discussions continue, advocates remain hopeful that legislative action will prioritize aviation safety and prevent future accidents.
