Ted Cruz Urges Caution on DC Plane Crash, Pushes for Full Investigation

Sen. Ted Cruz cautioned against hastily concluding the cause of the tragic plane-helicopter collision in Washington, D.C. As President Trump pondered the implications of DEI policies, Cruz underscored the importance of a comprehensive NTSB investigation before placing any blame.

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz expressed caution on Thursday concerning the speculation surrounding the cause of the tragic midair collision between a commercial jet and a military helicopter in Washington, D.C. He highlighted the necessity of awaiting the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) findings.

Cruz, as chair of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, which supervises both the NTSB and FAA, is poised to play a significant role in the government's response. His remarks followed closely on the heels of President Donald Trump's suggestion that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies for air traffic controllers might have contributed to the accident.

“We must not jump to conclusions before examining the evidence,” Cruz stated on his podcast. “Determining the precise cause of this accident—be it pilot error, air traffic control, or other contributing factors is essential.”

In a Senate Commerce Committee briefing with the NTSB, Sen. Tammy Duckworth, who has a background as an Army helicopter pilot, pointed out that the helicopter seemed to be deviating from its designated route at the moment of the crash. Cruz expressed concerns regarding reports that the air traffic controller overseeing the two aircraft was fulfilling dual roles because of staffing shortages.

Cruz acknowledged the challenging environment for pilots due to the heavy helicopter traffic at Reagan National Airport, emphasizing that “the two should not have collided” and that a thorough investigation would reveal who or what was at fault.

“He added that one of the dangers following a catastrophic accident is the spread of misinformation.” “We will determine who was involved, how, and why it occurred—but we must exercise patience.”

The NTSB is actively pursuing its investigation, with results anticipated in the upcoming months.

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