Wichita Standard

Today, Representative Ron Estes from Kansas led a moment of silence on the House floor in memory of those who lost their lives on January 29 when Flight 5342 and an Army Black Hawk helicopter collided. This solemn event was attended by the Kansas delegation and other members of Congress representing affected districts.

"We grieve with the families and friends they left behind and pray for those in our districts who are still in shock at the loss of their loved ones," said Rep. Estes. "Together, we commit to finding answers, and to working to ensure another tragedy like this doesn’t happen again."

Flight 5342 departed Wichita, Kansas, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members before colliding with a Black Hawk helicopter near Washington D.C., resulting in the deaths of all aboard both aircraft. The victims included young skaters, a rural couple from Kansas, a college student, and others returning from an annual hunting trip.

Rep. Estes highlighted that Americans across the country have been honoring these 67 individuals since the incident occurred. He stated that this meeting marked the first full House gathering since the tragedy.

"In homes, churches and community gatherings across the country, Americans have paused to honor the 67 souls that perished last week," Rep. Estes continued. "Tonight, on this first meeting of the full House since the tragedy, we will do the same."

A moment of silence was observed to remember those lost in this tragic accident.