Aviation attorney discusses likely lawsuit against government, American Airlines filed by victims’ families

An aviation attorney has predicted that families of the victims involved in the tragic midair collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines regional jet will likely file lawsuits against both the U.S. government and American Airlines in the near future.

The collision, which occurred as the jet was preparing to land at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, resulted in the deaths of all 67 passengers and crew members on board. The helicopter was on a training mission with three soldiers on board at the time of the accident.

James Brauchle, the aviation attorney, emphasized the rarity of such accidents in the aviation industry, stating that air travel is generally considered to be extremely safe. He noted that the last commercial aviation accident involving a U.S. carrier occurred in 2009, underscoring the infrequency of such incidents.

Following the tragedy, Brauchle highlighted the common questions that families of the victims often grapple with, such as why and how the accident occurred. He stressed that seeking answers and understanding the cause of the accident are crucial steps in the grieving process for the families affected.

Brauchle also shared his professional insight, stating that it is common for families to pursue legal action in the aftermath of aviation accidents. He expressed his expectation that both the airline and the government would likely face lawsuits as a result of the collision.

In terms of accountability, Brauchle pointed out that the government could be held responsible on multiple fronts. This includes the operation of the helicopter by the Army as well as the role of air traffic control, which is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

As investigations into the incident continue, Brauchle urged caution in jumping to conclusions, emphasizing the importance of allowing the investigative process to unfold. The tragic collision serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with air travel and the devastating impact such accidents can have on families and communities.