Following a deadly midair collision near Reagan National Airport, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is actively working to determine the cause of the tragic incident. NTSB member Todd Inman has emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough investigation to accurately understand the events leading up to the collision.
Inman stated that it is premature to speculate on the specifics of the incident and that the preliminary report is expected to be released within 30 days. The comprehensive investigation is projected to span a year to ensure precision and avoid premature conclusions.
Two black boxes have been recovered from one of the aircraft involved in the collision and are currently undergoing analysis at the NTSB's laboratory. Inman mentioned that the military helicopter, a Black Hawk, also possesses a recording device, although the content of the recorder, whether voice recordings, data, or both, remains uncertain.
While the Black Hawk's recorder has not yet been retrieved, Inman expressed confidence in its location. These black boxes are crucial in providing a wealth of data points that offer a detailed overview of the events leading up to the collision, enabling investigators to gain a deeper understanding of the circumstances.