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Today, August 4, following last week’s three-day investigative hearing by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) into the January midair collision between Flight 5342 from ICT to DCA and a military helicopter, Representative Sharice Davids released a statement:

“I’m grateful to the National Transportation Safety Board for their thorough, transparent, and thoughtful work,” said Davids. “Their diligence and professionalism reflect the seriousness of the midair collision that took 65 lives and the importance of ensuring our skies are safe for everyone — whether in commercial, general, or military aviation. With so many Kansas families connected to the aviation industry — through jobs, training, and innovation — we know firsthand how vital air safety is to our economy and our communities. I look forward to reviewing the findings and recommendations that come from this hearing and will continue working with both parties in Congress to support aviation safety and oversight.”

The public hearing examined critical issues such as airspace classification, pilot training, collision avoidance technology, and safety management systems in the wake of the January 29, 2025, collision between a PSA Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter that claimed 65 lives.

In response to the tragedy, Representative Sharice Davids has worked to improve aviation safety. She met with victims’ families in Wichita, pledging to advocate for transparency and reform throughout the investigation. In a Transportation & Infrastructure Committee hearing, she questioned FAA and NTSB officials about air traffic controller shortages and safety protocols. Davids also toured the Olathe Air Traffic Control Center to highlight critical staffing needs and called for increased investment in aviation safety infrastructure. Following the NTSB’s initial recommendations, she committed to supporting any necessary legislative changes to better protect passengers and crew. As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Davids has consistently backed bipartisan efforts to strengthen transportation safety, including helping pass a bipartisan FAA reauthorization into law.