Wichita Standard

Rep. Ron Estes of Kansas responded to the National Transportation Safety Board's (NTSB) preliminary report on the collision between American Eagle Flight 5342 and Black Hawk PAT 25, which resulted in 67 fatalities.

"Our state and nation continue mourning the 67 lives lost in the tragedy of the Jan. 29 collision over the Potomac River," Rep. Estes stated. He acknowledged that "the NTSB's preliminary report contains many of the critical facts that have been reported throughout the past month, including details into what happened in both cockpits on that tragic night, as well as two urgent safety recommendations to prevent a future incident at Reagan National Airport."

Rep. Estes expressed his support for all agencies involved in investigating the incident, including "the NTSB, FAA, Army, and all other involved agencies and parties," highlighting "the Department of Transportation's support and implementation of safety recommendations and improvements." He conveyed his hope that these efforts would aid in healing for those affected: "While nothing can ever replace the lives lost on Flight 5342 and PAT 25, my prayer is that these insights, recommendations and changes help bring healing and closure to the families of those grieving."

The NTSB released its preliminary findings on March 11 as part of its ongoing investigation into the January 29 collision. Previously, on March 3, Rep. Estes' resolution honoring those who perished was unanimously passed by voice vote in the House.