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American Airlines CEO breaks silence after regional jet collides with Black Hawk helicopter: ‘I'd like to…’
Robert Isom explained that American Airlines is “actively working with local, state, and federal authorities on emergency response efforts.”
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom issued a video statement after its regional jet collided mid-air with a military helicopter Wednesday night. The 58-year-old expressed “deep sorrow” over the tragic incident, which has left at least 19 dead so far. The PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jetliner, carrying 64 people, crashed into the Potomac River near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport around 9 pm ET, reported CBS News.
American Airlines CEO breaks silence on deadly Washington DC plane crash
In the video statement shared on the airline's website and X, Isom said, “I want to brief you on a serious accident that occurred involving an American Eagle aircraft. The aircraft was operated by PSA Airlines, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines.”
Follow live updates for Washington DC plane crash: 19 bodies recovered after American Airlines jet collides with Black Hawk helicopter in Washington DC | LIVE updates
“First and most importantly, I'd like to express our deep sorrow about these events. This is a difficult day for all of us at American Airlines,” went on, adding, “Our efforts now are focused entirely on the needs of our passengers, crew members, partners, first responders, along with their families and loved ones. I know that there are many questions, and at this early stage, I'll not be able to answer all of them, but I do want to share the information I have at this time.”
Isom explained that the airline is “actively working with local, state, and federal authorities on emergency response efforts.” Additionally, the airline's care team is assisting the passengers and their families. “We're cooperating fully with the National Transportation Safety Board in its investigation, and we'll continue to provide all the information we can,” he added.
“Our team of highly trained professionals will be working around the clock to support our passengers, crew and their families however we can, and we'll update you as soon as we can. Thank you,” Isom concluded.
