Investigation into deadly midair collision focuses on helicopter flight

Main Idea: The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the deadly crash between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and American Eagle Flight 5342, with the helicopter’s flight path and altitude becoming the main focus.

Key Points:

• Officials say black boxes from both aircraft have been recovered and should help show the exact altitude and other details at the moment of impact.
• Public flight data suggests the helicopter may have been flying above the allowed altitude near Reagan National Airport, while the jet appeared to be on its normal descent path.
• Investigators are also reviewing air traffic control staffing, the crowded Washington airspace, and whether the Army crew was using night-vision goggles.
• The Army says the helicopter crew was experienced, but questions remain about training, equipment, and whether military flights should be routed near the airport.