Captain Jonathan Campos,Ian Epstein Obituary, Death; – At least five individuals, either residents or employees of Charlotte, lost their lives when American Airlines Flight 5342 collided with an Army helicopter in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday evening.
The deceased include all four members of the flight crew and one passenger. The aircraft was in the process of landing shortly before 9 p.m. when it intersected with an Army Black Hawk. United States Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that the flight paths were “standard,” yet he also emphasized that the incident was “absolutely” preventable.
The flight crew members who perished have been identified as PSA flight attendants Ian Epstein and Danasia Elder, Captain Jonathan Campos, and First Officer Sam Lilley. The Association of Flight Attendants confirmed that all four were based in Charlotte. The passenger, Wendy Jo Shaffer, was a mother and wife from Charlotte, as noted in a GoFundMe campaign. She leaves behind two young sons, aged 1 and 3.
Ian Epstein began his flying career in 2020 and was remembered as a vibrant and enjoyable presence. His friend, Garrick McFadden, remarked, “He truly embodies the humanity of being a flight attendant and the joy it brings.”
Danasia Elder, who had only started her career last year, was honored alongside Epstein. The Association of Flight Attendants released a statement pledging to do everything possible to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Jonathan Campos and Sam Lilley were both experienced pilots. Campos, a Charlotte-based pilot, resided in Florida and commuted to Charlotte for work, having been with PSA for eight years. Sam Lilley, a second-generation pilot from Savannah, was also recognized for his extensive experience in aviation.
Gate agent Charissa Myles expressed that the loss of life extended beyond mere employees and passengers, stating, “We’re family. Airline personnel are families.”
