The father of the pilot who was operating the American Airlines plane that crashed is demanding answers after experiencing the most devastating day of his life.
Investigators recover black boxes as families seek clarity
The father of Sam Lilley, the pilot of the crashed American Airlines flight, is demanding answers after the devastating accident.
The collision occurred on January 29 over Washington, D.C., when the aircraft struck a military helicopter mid-air.
Both aircraft crashed into the Potomac River, killing all 67 people on board.
Officials recover at least 40 bodies from the crash site
Search teams have recovered at least 40 bodies from the wreckage. DC Fire has now completed the search of accessible areas. Investigators are working to locate remaining aircraft components and begin salvage operations.
Authorities have recovered the black boxes from the American Airlines plane. These recordings will help determine the cause of the disaster. However, officials have not yet confirmed what led to the collision.
Pilot’s father speaks out after ‘worst day of his life’
Timothy Lilley, the father of pilot Sam Lilley, has broken his silence following the tragedy. He described it as “the worst day of my life.”
Speaking to Fox 5, he recalled seeing news of the crash while in New York. At first, he dismissed the possibility that his son was involved. But when Sam failed to check in after the flight, his worst fears became reality.
A family of Aviators shares a passion for flying
The Lilley family has deep ties to aviation. Sam started flight training in 2019 and worked for PSA Airlines, a subsidiary of American Airlines, for two years. His father, Timothy, served as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army for 20 years.
Timothy reflected on his past flights over Washington, D.C., saying:
“If you’re flying over the Potomac with night vision goggles, it’s hard to see a plane. Without them, you might have a chance.”
Timothy lilley blames military helicopter for the crash
While investigators have not determined the official cause, Timothy believes the military helicopter was at fault. He claimed:
“From what I see, those guys turned right into the jet. I think the PSA jet was doing everything right.”
The grieving father added:
“The Army pilot made a grave error. It hurts me because those are my brothers, and now my son is dead.”
Investigation continues as families await answers
Authorities are still analyzing flight data and voice recordings from the black boxes. Timothy Lilley has traveled to the crash site, hoping for clarity.
He has filled out paperwork at the airport and is waiting for updates. Officials have promised further information as the investigation progresses.
As search teams continue working, families of the victims remain desperate for answers.