Families demand answers after deadliest U.S. plane crash in decades

The grief from the deadliest domestic plane crash in nearly 25 years continues to weigh heavily on families, who are now demanding accountability.

(NBC)- The grief from the deadliest domestic plane crash in nearly 25 years continues to weigh heavily on families, who are now demanding accountability.

Doug Lane, who lost his wife Christine and their 16-year-old son Spencer—a rising figure skating star—said families are prepared for a long fight. “Many of us have been asked whether we dread the idea of rehashing the worst days of our lives in court? Our answer today is clear, we’re ready.”

All 67 people aboard both aircraft were killed when a regional jet collided with a U.S. Army Blackhawk helicopter near Washington, D.C.’s Reagan National Airport. Lane believes the tragedy traces back years to systemic failures: “We think this story is actually much bigger and actually can be traced back years prior … in terms of decisions that were made across the FAA, the U.S. Army, and American Airlines.”

On Wednesday, Rachel Crafton, whose husband Casey died in the crash, filed the first wrongful death lawsuit against the FAA, the U.S. Army, and the airlines involved. The suit alleges the Army flight crew failed to fly at or below mandatory altitude and cites a “documented history of over 30 near-miss events” involving aircraft and helicopters near Reagan National.

Dozens of other families are preparing similar legal action. Amy Hunter, who lost her cousin Peter, his wife, and their two young children, said the pain is still raw: “Everly and Alidia would be celebrating their birthdays this weekend. It’s going to be hard for our family.”

The FAA responded, saying, “Since the accident, Secretary Duffy and the FAA have acted decisively to make the skies over our nation’s capital safer.” American Airlines also issued a statement: “Our priority since Jan. 29 has been supporting the families… We have a strong track record of putting the safety of our customers and team members above everything else.”

For victims’ families, the push for accountability is about more than closure. Matt Collins, who lost his brother Chris, emphasized the need for reform: “I’d like to see the government entities be held responsible. I think it was plainly obvious what had been happening for years and years.”

The lawsuits may mark the beginning of a long legal battle, but families say their fight is for justice—and to prevent another disaster.