Trump says Blackhawk helicopter in DC crash was flying too high

Former President Donald Trump said Friday that the Army Black Hawk helicopter involved in this week’s deadly midair collision near Washington, D.C., was flying well above its altitude limit at the time of the crash.

His remarks, made in a Truth Social post, appeared to be a major disclosure about the ongoing investigation.

"The Blackhawk helicopter was flying too high, by a lot. It was far above the 200-foot limit. That’s not really too complicated to understand, is it???" Trump wrote.

The crash, which killed all 67 people aboard both aircraft, remains under investigation by federal transportation authorities.

Debris is seen at the site of the crash, after American Eagle flight 5342 collided with a Black Hawk helicopter while approaching Reagan Washington National Airport and crashed into the Potomac River, U.S. January 30, 2025. Reuters

The Army did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The Black Hawk was from the 12th Aviation Battalion, based at Fort Belvoir in Virginia. The unit handles helicopter operations in the Washington area, frequently transporting senior U.S. government officials.

For safety reasons, Army helicopters flying Route 4 over the Potomac River are required to remain below 200 feet (61 meters). Flight data suggests the Black Hawk was at 300 feet when it collided with the regional passenger jet near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth acknowledged Thursday that altitude may have been a factor. However, he defended the helicopter crew’s experience, stating that the instructor pilot had 1,000 flying hours while the other pilot had 500. A third soldier, acting as crew chief, was also aboard.

Army investigators are on-site reviewing the crash, but officials have not confirmed whether altitude violation was a direct cause.

Trump’s remarks drew attention, as key details about the crash have yet to be officially released. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) continues to analyze flight data and cockpit recordings.

The collision has raised broader concerns about air safety near Washington’s busy airspace, with officials debating whether stricter flight separation rules are needed between military and commercial aircraft.

The Army has grounded flights from the unit involved as the investigation continues.