National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) president and CEO Ed Bolen issued yesterday the following statement regarding the Jan. 29 midair collision between American Eagle flight 5342 and an Army Black Hawk helicopter near "Ronald Reagan" Washington National Airport (DCA), in which all lives were lost.

“As part of the aviation community, NBAA and its members feel this loss deeply. Our hearts break for all those involved in this unspeakable tragedy, and our prayers are with their families, loved ones and friends. We extend our profound gratitude for the heroic first responders who worked through the night in high winds and ice to support the rescue effort. The National Transportation Safety Board has begun its investigation, and we know that in the months to come the NTSB’s work will provide important lessons about aviation safety, our highest priority. But in this moment of grieving, we offer our deepest condolences for those who have been lost".

Founded in 1947 and based in Washington, DC, the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) is the leading organization for companies that rely on general aviation aircraft to help make their businesses more efficient, productive and successful. The association represents more than 10,000 company and professional members and provides more than 100 products and services to the business aviation community.

See for details AVIONEWS 1, 2, 3 and 4.