Flight tracking data from the moments before the fatal midair collision on Wednesday night sheds light on the events leading up to the tragedy. The data indicates that the Black Hawk helicopter involved in the collision was flying above the maximum allowed altitude and deviating from the prescribed route along the east side of the Potomac River.
Two minutes before the collision, the military helicopter was recorded at 200 feet as it crossed over East Potomac Park, exceeding the maximum allowed altitude along its designated route known as Route 1. Subsequently, the helicopter climbed to 300 feet over the Potomac River, placing it closer to the airport and higher than permitted. Shortly before the crash, the helicopter rapidly descended back to 200 feet.
Additionally, the flight tracking data suggests that the Black Hawk made a turn towards the center of the river, deviating from the standard route that follows the east bank of the Potomac River. These maneuvers would have brought the helicopter closer to Washington’s Reagan National Airport than the usual flight path of the American Airlines regional jet that was approaching the airport.
While the flight tracking data provides valuable insights, it is important to note that the information for the Black Hawk was limited as it was sending a Mode S signal, which only transmits basic data about altitude and aircraft identification. In contrast, the American Airlines flight was broadcasting an ADS-B signal, offering more comprehensive information to air traffic control.
According to Ian Petchenik, a spokesperson for FlightRadar24, the ADS-B signal provides significantly more data compared to the Mode S signal. A complete analysis of the black boxes onboard the aircraft will be necessary to fully understand the moments leading up to the collision. However, even with the current data, it is evident that the helicopter was not in the correct position based on the flight tracking information available.
