Captain Jonathan Campos always dreamed of soaring through the skies. For the Brooklyn native, flying wasn’t just a career—it was a lifelong passion that shaped his identity. Tragically, that journey was cut short on January 29 when American Airlines Flight 5324 collided with a military helicopter over the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., claiming 67 lives, including his own.
A Dream That Took Flight
Jonathan Campos’ love for aviation began at an early age. Growing up in Brooklyn, he often spoke of becoming a pilot. That dream took him to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University at 18, one of the top aviation schools in the world. His dedication paid off as he rose through the ranks to become a captain with American Airlines, a position he proudly held for three years after serving as a pilot for six.
“He always wanted to be a pilot,” said Nicole Suissa, his high school friend and former fiancé. Suissa met Campos when they were just 14 at John Dewey High School in Brooklyn. Reflecting on their shared past, she described him as not just her first boyfriend but the person who left an indelible mark on her life.
“For about a third of my life, he was the love of my life,” Suissa said, her voice filled with both sorrow and pride. “It may not have worked out with me or with a lot of his relationships, but the longest standing relationship he had was with aviation.”
A Legacy Beyond the Cockpit
Campos wasn’t just an exceptional pilot—he was a man full of life, adventure, and a spirit that couldn’t be contained. When he wasn’t in the cockpit, he was chasing thrills: riding motorcycles, scuba diving, and skydiving. “This is a man who really knew how to live,” Suissa recalled. “I want him to be known for that. I want him to be known for the big personality and the big adventure that he was, instead of how he died.”
His family and friends remember him not only for his achievements but also for his warmth, humor, and zest for life. He left behind a legacy defined by courage, ambition, and an unwavering love for the skies.
Defending His Legacy Amid Tragedy
In the wake of the crash, Campos’ name has unfortunately been drawn into political debates. Some, including former President Donald Trump, have made baseless claims linking diversity hiring practices to the incident. Suissa firmly pushed back against these unfounded allegations, emphasizing Campos’ skill and professionalism.
“He was a damn good pilot,” she said passionately. “I don’t think this has anything to do with DEI. I think, unfortunately, this is being politicized, and that’s completely inappropriate.”
She added, “Yeah, he’s Puerto Rican—that’s really irrelevant. Doesn’t matter what he was. He was a good pilot. He was a good American pilot, and that should be the focus.”
Campos’ dedication, training, and years of experience speak for themselves. His colleagues, friends, and family stand united in honoring his legacy, refusing to let it be overshadowed by misinformation or political agendas.
Goodbye and Lasting Memories
Captain Campos will be laid to rest in New York, alongside his father. Funeral arrangements are still underway as his family copes with the overwhelming grief of his sudden loss.
Suissa’s heartfelt words capture the essence of their connection and the lasting impact Campos had on those who knew him: “Even if we couldn’t be together, we wanted each other to be happy. And I just, you know, hope whatever the hell he’s doing up there, he’s happy.”
Jonathan Campos lived with passion, flew with purpose, and left behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.