Summary
The first lawsuit has been filed after a collision between a passenger jet and a U.S. Army helicopter near Washington, D.C., which resulted in 67 deaths. The lawsuit was initiated by the widow of a victim against American Airlines, PSA Airlines, and the federal government. The crash is the deadliest U.S. air traffic disaster in decades, with investigations revealing issues with the helicopter's altimeter and prior near misses at the airport.
Key Facts
- A passenger jet and a U.S. Army helicopter collided midair near Washington, D.C., on January 29, 2025.
- Sixty-seven people died in the collision, including passengers, crew members, and the helicopter team.
- Casey Crafton's wife, Rachel Crafton, filed the first wrongful death lawsuit in connection with the crash.
- The lawsuit names American Airlines, PSA Airlines, and the federal government as defendants.
- The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) held hearings revealing problems with the helicopter's altimeter.
- Lawyers argue the airline did not properly train its crew to manage airport congestion.
- American Airlines insists on its safety commitment and will defend itself against the lawsuits.
- Several family members of other victims have shown support for the Crafton family at a press conference.
