Pilot of American Airlines jet that crashed in Washington DC had Florida ties
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - One of the pilots of the passenger jet involved in a midair collision in Washington, D.C. was a native of New York but grew up in Florida, where he learned to fly planes, according to records and statements from those who knew him.
What we know:
Jonathan Jay Campos, 34, was the captain of American Airlines Flight 5342, which was struck by an Army Blackhawk helicopter near the Potomac River on approach to Reagan Washington National Airport.
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A pilot's license registered with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) lists an Ormond Beach, Florida, residence for Campos. Other records indicate Campos was originally from Brooklyn, New York.
Campos attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) in Daytona Beach, from 2011 to 2015, earning a degree in Aeronautical Sciences, according to the school. He also attended the Epic Flight Academy in New Smyrna Beach, where he earned his certification as a flight instructor, according to the academy.
The wreckage of both aircraft was recovered, with the plane found in three sections in waist-deep water of the Potomac.
There was no immediate word on the cause of the collision, but officials said flight conditions were clear as the jet arrived from Wichita, Kansas. Investigators from the FAA will join the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which is leading the investigation into the collision.
What we don't know:
The cause of the collision remains under investigation by the NTSB and FAA. The total number of confirmed fatalities is still unknown.
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Pictured: The scene of the D.C. plane crash Wednesday evening.
Whether air traffic control or mechanical failures played a role in the crash is also unknown, as are the specific details about the final moments before impact.
Timeline:
The crash occurred late Wednesday as the passenger jet approached Reagan National Airport from Wichita, Kansas. Recovery efforts began immediately, with wreckage and bodies pulled from the Potomac River in the hours that followed and is ongoing.
MORE: Air traffic control audio in DC plane crash captures moments around collision
On Thursday, the NTSB and FAA announced the start of their investigation, stating it would take time to determine the cause. The "black boxes," which record flight data, have not yet been recovered.
By the numbers:
The plane was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members at the time of the crash late Wednesday. Three soldiers were on board the helicopter.
At least 28 bodies had been recovered as of late Thursday afternoon, but the total number of casualties has not been confirmed.
If all 64 people on board the plane were killed, it would be the deadliest U.S. airline crash since Nov. 12, 2001, when an American Airlines flight crashed into a residential area of Belle Harbor, New York, just after takeoff from Kennedy Airport, killing all 260 people aboard.
What they're saying:
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Epic Flight Academy praised Campos' dedication and expressed their condolences.
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"Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Captain Jonathan Campos," wrote ERAU spokesperson Sarah Barczyk. "Our thoughts are with his family and the families and loved ones of all impacted by this tragic accident."
Epic Flight Academy called Campos "a valued flight instructor."
"He was a skilled and dedicated pilot with an undeniable passion for flying," wrote Epic Flight Academy in a social media post. "Our deepest condolences go out to Jonathan's family, friends, and all those who lost their lives or were impacted by this devastating tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this incredibly difficult time."
The NTSB Chair emphasized that the investigation is ongoing.
"We look at facts on our investigation and that will take some time," Jennifer Homendy said on Thursday.
Why you should care:
If confirmed, this would be the deadliest U.S. airline crash since 2001, underscoring the continued importance of aviation safety.
The crash involved military and civilian aircraft, raising potential questions about air traffic coordination and adequate staffing of air traffic controllers. The investigation could lead to changes in aviation regulations and airspace management.
The Source: The information in this story was gathered by FOX 13's sister station in Orlando, FOX 35.
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