Family Takes Legal Action After Devastating Plane Crash

A family has filed $250 million in claims against the FAA and U.S. Army following a devastating plane crash near Washington, D.C.

Key Takeaways

The family of Casey Crafton filed $250 million in claims against the U.S. government after a fatal collision between a military helicopter and a passenger jet.
The crash on January 29 near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport resulted in 67 fatalities, marking the first fatal commercial plane crash in the U.S. since 2009.
Claims allege understaffing at the air traffic control tower, the helicopter flying above its altitude limit, and communication lapses.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the crash, with potential factors including missed radio communication and altitude issues.
This legal action highlights concerns about aviation safety protocols and the need for refined military-civil regulations over shared airspaces.

Tragic Collision Sparks Legal Action

On January 29, a catastrophic collision between a military helicopter and a passenger jet near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport claimed 67 lives, including that of Casey Crafton, a technical support manager and father of three. In response to this tragedy, Crafton’s family has filed $250 million in claims against the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the U.S. Army, which operated the Black Hawk helicopter involved in the crash.

This incident marks the first fatal commercial plane crash in the United States since 2009 and the deadliest since a 2001 incident in New York City. The claims, filed under the Federal Tort Claims Act, include $50 million for personal injury and $200 million for wrongful death. This legal action serves as a precursor to potential lawsuits if the claims are not addressed within six months.

Family of DC plane crash victim files $250 million claim against government https://t.co/8tEDAEvF4M

— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) February 19, 2025

Allegations of Negligence

The family’s legal team, led by attorney Robert Clifford, has raised serious allegations against both the FAA and the U.S. Army. These include claims of understaffing at the air traffic control tower, the helicopter flying above its designated altitude limit, and critical communication lapses that may have contributed to the crash.

The FAA report indicated that air traffic control staffing was not at normal levels at the time of the incident, with one controller handling multiple duties.

Ongoing Investigations and Potential Factors

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is conducting a thorough investigation into the crash. NTSB Chairman Jennifer Homendy has mentioned potential missed radio communication and possible altitude issues as factors under scrutiny. A preliminary report is expected within 30 days of the incident, with a final report anticipated in one to two years.

Investigators have noted possible inaccurate altitude readings and communication issues before the crash. These factors, along with the alleged understaffing and potential violations of altitude restrictions, paint a complex picture of the events leading to this tragedy.

Impact on the Crafton Family and Broader Implications

The loss of Casey Crafton has left a profound impact on his family. Clifford described Crafton as “an incredible human being” who was devoted to his family and community. The $250 million claim reflects the substantial loss to Crafton’s wife, Rachel, and their three young sons.

This tragic incident is part of a series of recent aviation disasters in the U.S., including incidents in Philadelphia, Alaska, and Toronto. It has sparked renewed discussions about aviation safety, particularly in areas where commercial and military aircraft share airspace. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for air traffic control procedures, military flight operations, and overall aviation safety protocols in the United States.