A fatal midair collision in Washington, D.C., between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines plane, resulted in 67 deaths. Initial reports suggest potential contributing factors, including understaffing at Reagan National Airport's air traffic control tower, the helicopter possibly flying at an unauthorized altitude, and a possible late departure of an air traffic controller. The incident has prompted investigations by the NTSB and the DoD, with officials expressing concern and vowing to find answers. Speculation regarding the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in staffing decisions has also emerged. The investigation is ongoing.