Investigators examining the black box data from the recently crashed aircraft have identified a notable inconsistency that may offer essential insights into the cause of the tragic collision.

Preliminary results from the inquiry into the unfortunate incident involving an American Airlines CRJ-700 jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Washington, D.C., which resulted in the loss of 67 lives, reveal a significant altitude discrepancy at the moment of the accident.

The flight recorder from the jet indicates it was operating at approximately 325 feet, while data from the control tower recorded the helicopter at 200 feet. This 125-foot variance is currently being scrutinized by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) as they aim to comprehend its influence on the fatal event.

Investigators are probing the conflicting altitude measurements from the recent midair collision, considering various possible explanations. They are investigating whether there were inaccuracies in the reported altitudes, if the helicopter may have exceeded its maximum permitted altitude of 200 feet for its flight path, and the effects of the crew’s use of night-vision goggles.

Alerts recorded from air traffic control to both the helicopter and the airplane, along with the aircraft’s last-minute evasive maneuvers, are being examined to gain a deeper understanding of the incident’s dynamics.

“That’s what our job is, to figure that out,” stated NTSB member Todd Inman, expressing some frustration with reporters seeking further details on the altitude discrepancies, as reported by DailyMail.

Investigators are working to reconcile the differing altitude readings with data from the helicopter’s black box, which has faced delays due to water damage after it fell into the Potomac River.

“We currently don’t have the readout from the Black Hawk, so we cannot provide information about the altitude at which the helicopter was flying,” Inman clarified, adding that “obviously an impact occurred, and I would say when an impact occurs, that is typically where the altitude of both.”

Some individuals expressed a desire to offer us comfort through hugs, while others exhibited feelings of anger and frustration, as shared by Inman. “They are all experiencing pain and are seeking answers, which we are committed to providing.”

“Our responsibility lies in uncovering the facts,” Inman stated. “More importantly, we must ensure that such a tragedy does not recur, irrespective of external opinions.”

Black boxes, also known as flight recorders, play a crucial role in the investigation of aviation incidents. They comprise two main components: the Flight Data Recorder (FDR), which tracks flight metrics such as speed, altitude, and engine performance, and the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), which captures the dialogue of the pilots and sounds within the cockpit.

Contrary to what their name suggests, these devices are bright orange to enhance visibility. They are designed to withstand extreme conditions, including severe crashes, intense fires, and high underwater pressures. Fitted with underwater locator beacons, they can emit signals for up to 30 days to facilitate recovery efforts.

“This investigation is intricate,” remarked Brice Banning, the lead investigator from the NTSB. “There are numerous elements to consider. Our team is diligently working to compile this information.”

Banning elaborated on the critical final moments recorded by the aircraft’s two black boxes, which captured both cockpit sounds and flight data. “The crew had a verbal response,” he observed, noting that the data recorder indicated “the airplane beginning to increase its pitch.”

“Sounds of impact were detected approximately one second later, followed by the cessation of the recording.”

An FAA report revealed that a single air traffic controller was overseeing both helicopter and airplane operations at the time of the incident. Typically, these duties are divided between two controllers; however, the airport often consolidates them into one position after 9:30 p.m. when traffic decreases.