A bipartisan aviation safety measure failed by a narrow margin in the U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday, dealing a blow to efforts sparked by the recent fatal aircraft collision near the nation’s capital.
The legislation, which had gained momentum following the deadly midair crash near Washington, D.C., lost crucial backing when the Pentagon suddenly reversed its position and withdrew support for the bill.
Family members of those killed in the midair collision were present on Capitol Hill during the vote, having attended a news conference earlier in the day to advocate for the safety legislation.
The close vote highlights the challenges facing aviation safety reform efforts, even in the wake of tragic incidents that expose potential gaps in current safety protocols.
