This Newly Proposed Law Could Make Flying A Lot Safer

It’s been six months since a tragic air collision near Reagan Washington National Airport claimed the lives of 67 people. That crash was between an American Airlines plane and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter.

That, along with several other flight incidents, has prompted many to urge for changes that would make flying a lot safer. The families of the victims of the air collision are now calling for new legislation that could do just that.

According to NBC 4 Washington, those families are now supporting new legislation that would require all aircraft to have ADS-B transponders turned on at all times. This is equipment that broadcasts an aircraft’s location in real time and is faster than existing technology currently in use.

“The NTSB first recommended ADS-B in nearly 20 years ago,” said U.S. Senator. Ted Cruz. “We are going to make that happen this year.”

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall added, “They need to turn them on when they are in those airspaces. The military, if they are going to be in the airspace, they need to turn on their transponders.”

“This is not about politics for us; it’s about saving lives,” said Doug Lane, whose wife and son died in the crash. “Every meaningful step towards transparency, accountability and safer skies is a victory for every family who has suffered an unimaginable loss.”

The NTSB (National Transportation Safety Board) has already confirmed that this legislation will help prevent future aircraft collisions and save lives.

We’ll keep an eye out for more details about the legislation moving forward and keep you updated, so check back with AllEars again soon for more.