American Airlines plane crash: Kansas lawmakers vow to find answers
Kansas’ entire congressional delegation is coming together to offer condolences and support to the families affected by the devastating crash of a flight from Wichita to Washington D.C. The tragic incident, which involved a Black Hawk helicopter colliding with an American Airlines PSA commercial jet, has left no survivors.
In a joint statement, the lawmakers expressed their solidarity with the grieving families and emphasized their commitment to finding answers and ensuring that such a tragedy does not occur again. They acknowledged the close-knit community of South Central Kansas and the deep impact that the crash will have on the region, which has a rich aviation and manufacturing history.
The statement was signed by GOP Kansas senators Roger Marshall and Jerry Moran, as well as Republican House representatives Ron Estes, Tracey Mann, Derek Schmidt, and the delegation’s lone Democrat, Sharice Davids. Rep. Estes, who represents much of Wichita where the flight originated, expressed his deep sorrow for the loss.
Sen. Moran, who had advocated for the flight route to begin last year, highlighted the need for swift answers and accountability. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also pledged to investigate the incident and provide support to the affected families.
Rep. Beyer, who represents Arlington County where the airport is located, assured the families of his office’s support and gratitude for the first responders who worked tirelessly through the night. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that such a tragedy is prevented in the future through a thorough investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board.
American Airlines, which confirmed the number of passengers and crew on board, has set up hotlines for families seeking information. U.S. officials are investigating why the helicopter flew into the path of the descending plane, with Duffy stating that the two aircraft’s mutual patterns were not atypical.
This tragic event has deeply affected the entire nation, and the congressional delegation from Kansas is committed to standing by the families in their time of grief and mourning. As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on providing answers, support, and ensuring the safety of air travel for all passengers.
