The pilots of a U.S. Army helicopter faced significant challenges while using night vision goggles during a collision with a passenger jet. The goggles made it difficult to see colored lights from the jet and limited peripheral vision. Distinguishing the plane from ground lights added to the dangers. Experts noted the importance of knowing where to look for arriving aircraft, particularly on a rarely used secondary runway. The Board Chairwoman urged the FAA to address long-ignored safety warnings as investigations reveal critical factors contributing to this tragic crash.
The Army goggles would have made it difficult to see the plane's colored lights, which might have helped the Black Hawk determine the plane's direction.
Experts said another challenge that evening was distinguishing the plane from lights on the ground while the two aircraft were on a collision course.
Knowing where to look. That's key.
Some of the major issues that have emerged so far include the Black Hawk helicopter flying above prescribed levels near the airport.
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