Two weeks after the tragic collision between American Eagle Flight 5342 and a Black Hawk helicopter near Washington, D.C., PSA Airlines has posthumously honored the crew members of the flight for their service and dedication.
The January 29 crash, which claimed the lives of 60 passengers, four airline crew members, and three soldiers aboard the military helicopter, remains under investigation as authorities seek answers to what caused the midair collision.
Details of the Deadly Collision
On the night of January 29, American Eagle Flight 5342, a regional flight operated by PSA Airlines, was en route from Wichita, Kansas, to Reagan International Airport when it collided with a military Black Hawk helicopter during its final approach to the runway.
Both aircraft plummeted into the Potomac River, leaving no survivors. The crash is being investigated by aviation authorities to determine what factors led to the midair collision.
Posthumous Honors for the Crew Members
In a heartfelt announcement on Sunday, PSA Airlines, a regional subsidiary of American Airlines, awarded its highest employee distinction—the PSA Honorary President’s Award—to the four crew members on board Flight 5342:
- Captain Jonathan Campos
- First Officer Samuel Lilley
- Flight Attendant Danasia Elder
- Flight Attendant Ian Epstein
The award is typically peer-nominated, but PSA said the overwhelming support from its 5,000 team members made the decision unanimous. In its statement, the airline called the award a tribute to the crew’s courage and dedication.
“The highest honor a PSA team member can receive, this award represents the very best of our airline,” the statement said. Family members of the fallen crew members will receive commemorative certificates to honor their loved ones.
First Officer Lilley Named Honorary Captain
PSA Airlines gave First Officer Samuel Lilley an honorary captain’s title posthumously, recognizing his contributions to aviation excellence during his time with the airline.
“Throughout his tenure at PSA Airlines, Samuel Lilley exemplified the highest standards of aviation excellence, demonstrating exceptional airmanship, unwavering dedication to safety, and extraordinary professionalism,” the airline said.
The honorary title celebrates Lilley’s legacy and lasting impact on the airline community. “His legacy will forever serve as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the dedication, skill, and integrity that define the very best in our profession,” the statement continued.
PSA Airlines’ Support for Families and Loved Ones
PSA Airlines emphasized its commitment to supporting the families of the victims, saying it has been focused on providing care and assistance to those affected by the tragedy.
“We cannot think of a more moving or sincere tribute than having all 5,000 team members nominate our fallen colleagues,” PSA stated, highlighting the outpouring of support from within the company.
Ongoing Investigation into the Crash
Authorities, including the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), are working to uncover the cause of the collision. Investigators are examining factors such as air traffic control communication, weather conditions, aircraft positioning, and possible mechanical issues.
Midair collisions are rare, but when they occur, they are often attributed to a combination of miscommunication, visibility issues, or equipment failure. As the investigation progresses, officials are expected to release a report with their findings to help prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the investigation continues, the legacy of Captain Campos, First Officer Lilley, and flight attendants Elder and Epstein is being honored by PSA Airlines and the aviation community. Their dedication to safety and service will not be forgotten, with their names now etched into the memory of the company they served.
The PSA Honorary President’s Award and Lilley’s honorary captain title stand as enduring reminders of the professionalism and courage demonstrated by the crew in the face of this tragedy.
