Press Releases

Chairman Cruz and Aviation Subcommittee Chairman Moran Announce Hearing on DCA Tragedy

March 11, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation, will convene a subcommittee hearing titled “NTSB Preliminary Report: DCA Midair Collision” on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 10:00 am EST. This hearing will examine preliminary findings from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) on the deadly crash involving American Airlines 5342 and a U.S. Army Blackhawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).

Upon announcing this hearing, Sen. Moran said:

“The NTSB’s preliminary report lays the foundation for understanding what circumstances led to the deadly accident over the Potomac that claimed 67 lives. I appreciate the NTSB, FAA, DoD and other parties collaborating on this investigation and expect their continued cooperation as I lead a subcommittee hearing on March 27th to review the report and work to determine policy changes that may be necessary to prevent future tragedies. While this report provides some clarity, I know that nothing will take away the pain felt by the families of the victims, and I continue to pray for the Kansans, and all Americans, who are grieving this loss.”

Sen. Cruz said:

“The midair collision at DCA is a tragedy that has left the families of 67 souls grieving, and the investigation into the causes of this accident will continue until we know precisely what went wrong on the evening of January 29th. With complete jurisdiction over the national airspace, the Commerce Committee has an obligation to support those families and to do everything in Congress’ power to keep the flying public safe. I look forward to hearing from key federal officials about the preliminary findings on the cause of this tragic accident.”

Witnesses:

  • Jennifer Homendy, Chairman, National Transportation Safety Board
  • Chris Rocheleau, Acting Administrator, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) (Invited)
  • Brigadier General Matthew Braman, Director, Army Aviation, United States Army (Invited)

Details:

WHAT: Aviation, Space, and Innovation Subcommittee hearing titled “NTSB Preliminary Report: DCA Midair Collision”

DATE: Thursday, March 27, 2025
TIME: 10:00 AM EST
LOCATION: Committee Hearing Room, Russell 253

LIVESTREAM: The hearing will stream live on the Committee Website or YouTube

MEDIA INFO: Reporters wanting to attend the committee please contact your respective media gallery to RSVP.

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