US admits fault in deadly Reagan Airport crash

The government has accepted responsibility for a midair collision near Washington, DC, that killed 67 people earlier this year and is willing to pay compensation to victims’ families. 

In a court filing Wednesday, the Justice Department said the Army Black Hawk helicopter pilots failed to stay alert and avoid an American Airlines regional jet near the Reagan National Airport on January 29. 

The filing also said an air traffic controller did not clearly warn pilots that the two aircraft were on a collision course.

Families of victims have filed multiple lawsuits, accusing federal agencies and airlines of systemic failures.

American Airlines and its subsidiary, PSA Airlines, denied wrongdoing and argued that the government is responsible.

The National Transportation Safety Board continues to investigate the fatal crash, with final findings expected next year.