Family members of those killed in the American Eagle Flight 5342 crash near Reagan Airport have filed the first lawsuit, alleging systemic negligence by airlines and government agencies. The lawsuit, led by the Crafton family, claims that the disaster was preventable and caused by repeated failures in safety protocols and operational oversight. The crash, which killed 64 passengers, is attributed to the collision between a commercial aircraft and a military helicopter near the airport. The lawsuit targets American Airlines and PSA Airlines, accusing them of ignoring near misses and congested flight paths, as well as failing to prioritize safety over profits. The families are demanding compensation and legislative reforms to prevent future incidents.
The U.S. government is also being held accountable for its role in the crash, with the lawsuit naming the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the U.S. Army. Attorneys argue that the FAA’s air traffic control systems failed to ensure safe operations, while the Army helicopter crew violated basic flight rules. The lawsuit includes a demand for reforms in oversight and regulatory procedures, aiming to improve aviation safety nationwide. Before pursuing legal action against the government, families must first submit claims through the Federal Insurance Claims Act, a process that has already been initiated by nearly all victims’ families. The Crafton case is seen as a key precedent for other families, who are preparing to consolidate their lawsuits in federal court.
Survivors of the crash, including members of the Lane family who lost their wife and son, have also joined the legal battle, seeking both compensation and accountability. Doug Lane, who also lost his wife and son, emphasized the emotional toll of the tragedy and the families’ determination to