MONTREAL – The International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations (IFALPA) is closely monitoring the developments related to last night’s mid-air collision between PSA Airlines CRJ-700, (operating for American Airlines as Flight 5342), on final approach to runway 33 at Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter on a local training flight.
Our thoughts are with the loved ones of the reported 60 passengers and 4 crew members onboard the CRJ-700 and the 3 military personnel onboard the helicopter. We express our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
The Federation remains at the complete disposal of its Member Association in the US, ALPA International, to assist in any way necessary and gather any information which may be pertinent to the investigation. We remain committed to supporting the efforts of the authorities as they work to determine the contributing factors of this accident.
The Federation urges caution against speculation in media and social media surrounding this tragic event. The investigation into the circumstances of the accident should strictly follow the provisions laid out in ICAO Annex 13, with conclusions and safety recommendations identified by the appropriate investigative bodies.
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