The aviation community is mourning the loss of the dedicated crew members aboard American Eagle Flight 5342, which tragically collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter over Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night. The pilots and flight attendants have been identified as Captain Jonathan Campos, First Officer Samuel Lilley, and flight attendants Ian Epstein and Danasia Elder.
Captain Jonathan Campos, 34, was at the controls of the regional jet when it crashed into the Potomac River near Reagan Washington National Airport. Originally from New York but raised in Florida, Campos had dedicated years to his passion for aviation. According to records from Epic Flight Academy, he earned his flight instructor certification in 2017 and his commercial airline pilot license in 2018. His commitment to aviation and his professionalism were hallmarks of his career.
First Officer Samuel Lilley, 29, was also piloting the ill-fated flight. Lilley, who was recently engaged, was just months away from being promoted to captain—a milestone he had been working toward as part of his lifelong dream of aviation. His father, Timothy Lilley, a former Army Black Hawk pilot, shared in an emotional interview that Samuel was “in the prime of his life” and excited about his future. In a tragic coincidence, Timothy revealed that he had previously flown the same type of helicopter in the exact airspace where the crash occurred.
Flight attendants Ian Epstein and Danasia Elder were also aboard the flight. Epstein, who came from a family of aviators, had begun his airline career in 2019 and was engaged to be married. Elder, whose background and dedication to her role were equally admired, was remembered for her professionalism and kindness. Both were integral members of the crew, ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers on every flight.
The collision occurred 400 feet above the Potomac River as Flight 5342 was on its final approach to Reagan Washington National Airport. The PSA Airlines-operated jet, carrying 60 passengers, was completing a routine flight from Wichita, Kansas, when it collided with the military helicopter, resulting in a catastrophic fireball that sent both aircraft plunging into the water.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched a full investigation into the cause of the midair collision. As the aviation community grieves the loss of these dedicated professionals, their families, colleagues, and loved ones are left to grapple with the profound tragedy.
Captain Campos, First Officer Lilley, and flight attendants Epstein and Elder will be remembered for their passion, dedication, and service. Their loss is a stark reminder of the risks faced by those in the aviation industry and the importance of continued efforts to ensure the safety of all who take to the skies.