Current and former air traffic controllers warn that FAA hiring practices and an “immunity program” may have contributed to the recent midair collision near Reagan National Airport.

Critics argue that FAA’s focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) since the Obama administration has led to hiring less qualified controllers and a staffing shortage. Additionally, the Air Traffic Safety Action Program (ATSAP) prevents accountability for mistakes.

The January 29 crash between an American Airlines plane and a U.S. Army helicopter killed 67 people. A former FAA specialist, Michael Pearson, claims the Reagan ATC failed to follow proper procedures, ignoring a conflict alert. He also alleges that FAA hiring changes intentionally disadvantaged certain applicants, sparking a class-action lawsuit.

The FAA and NTSB are investigating, as concerns grow over safety risks and near-miss incidents at U.S. airports.