ARLINGTON, VA — A tragic midair collision occurred near Ronald Reagan National Airport on Wednesday night, involving an American Airlines jet and a U.S. Army helicopter. The accident, which took place around 9 p.m., resulted in the loss of all 67 individuals on board both aircraft.
The American Airlines flight, operated by PSA Airlines as Flight 5342, was on its final approach to Reagan National Airport when it collided with the military helicopter. Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the crash, and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a full investigation. Officials are currently reviewing air traffic control communications, flight data records, and maintenance logs.
Among the victims were six members of The Skating Club of Boston, including teenage skaters Spencer Lane and Jinna Han, their mothers, Molly Lane and Jin Han, and two coaches, Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, both former Russian world champions. Additionally, members of the Philadelphia Skating Club & Humane Society and the University of Delaware Figure Skating Club were also on board. Former UD Figure Skating Club coach Sasha Kirsanov and two young skaters who trained at their facility were among those who perished.
Also among the victims was 28-year-old First Officer Sam Lilley, who was serving as the co-pilot on the American Airlines flight. His father, Tim Lilley, confirmed his son’s identity in a statement to the media.
U.S. Figure Skating released a statement following the crash:
“We are devastated by this unspeakable tragedy and hold the victims’ families closely in our hearts.”
Former President Donald Trump addressed the incident in a statement:
“I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident which just took place at Reagan National Airport. May God bless their souls. Thank you for the incredible work being done by our first responders. I am monitoring the situation and will provide more details as they arise.”
The NTSB continues to work alongside the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and military officials to determine the circumstances leading up to the collision. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
