On Jan. 29 an American Airlines plane crashed with a U.S Army Black Hawk helicopter leaving all 64 passengers dead. The collision occurred near the Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington D.C. The crash was announced to be the most deadly since 2001.
American Airlines Flight 5342, which left from Wichita, Kansas, had 60 passengers and four crew members aboard. The helicopter, a UH-60 Black Hawk, was on a training exercise carrying three soldiers.
Flight 5342 was instructed by air traffic controllers to use a shorter runway upon landing. After agreeing, the plane’s updated landing route was displayed in the flight traffic system. A controller then asked the helicopter crew if they were aware of the nearby plane to which the military pilot confirmed they were. Shortly after, the controller called again to instruct the helicopter to wait for the plane to pass but the crew did not respond. Moments later, the two aircraft collided.
Victims
All 67 victims of the crash have been found, with 66 being successfully identified. The flight consisted of a group of figure skaters returning home from the US 2025 Figure Skating Championships and a group of hunters. Out of the hunters, many were members of the United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters.
It has been discovered that the captain of the plane was 34 year old Jonathan Campos— who worked alongside co-pilot Sam Lilley. Flight attendants on board included Danasia Elder and Ian Epstein. The soldiers aboard the Army helicopter were Ryan O’hara, Andrew Eaves and Rebbeca Lobach.
President Trump’s response
President Trump spoke out at a conference about the recent plane crash. In his speech, he explained how the investigation will continue on the case, but diversity and inclusion programs could be held accountable. Trump noted that the most qualified individuals must fill the roles of Air Force occupations and assured that faith will be restored in the aviation system. He argued he transformed aviation standards after the Obama Administration and he will do the same again.
Sean Duffy’s response
Sean Duffy, the newly appointed transportation secretary and former reality TV star, addressed the crash in a public statement. In his speech, Duffy stated that tragedies like this should never occur and that passengers should always arrive safely at their destinations when boarding an aircraft.
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