Key facts
- Army probe recommends mandatory ADS-B Out transmissions for aircraft in Washington.
- Investigation found an existing ADS-B Out waiver was overapplied.
- Families of victims are calling for legislation requiring ADS-B In and limiting ADS-B Out exemptions.
- Army to study heavy traffic and near-miss data in urban areas globally.
An Army investigation into a fatal air disaster in Washington has resulted in sweeping recommendations aimed at enhancing aviation safety, particularly concerning the use of collision avoidance technology. The probe, led by McCurry, urged the Army Aviation Brigade, responsible for flights in Washington, to equip all aircraft with transponders featuring both ADS-B In and ADS-B Out capabilities.
McCurry specifically recommended that ADS-B Out be turned on immediately after departing classified sites, making its use mandatory in Washington unless supporting a national security contingency. The investigation revealed that an existing ADS-B Out waiver had been overapplied. While McCurry stated this specific issue did not directly cause the crash, interviewees expressed concerns about operational risks leading crews to leave ADS-B Out off, even when transmitting the equipment could have enhanced safety.