In a communication to staff on Thursday, American Airlines’ CEO Robert Isom stressed that prioritizing support for the families of victims from Wednesday night’s tragic mid-air collision involving its regional partner, PSA Airlines, is of utmost importance.

Isom expressed in the letter, which was also provided to YSL News, that “The last 15 hours have been extraordinarily challenging for both the American Airlines and PSA Airlines families.” He reflected on the “tragic accident of Flight 5342,” acknowledging its heavy toll on the airline, the aviation sector, and the wider community.

“Our current focus is on ensuring the well-being of the families and loved ones of those on board,” Isom added. “We appreciate the efforts of the first responders who acted swiftly last night and are continuing recovery operations today.”

The airline is collaborating closely with PSA Airlines as the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) leads the investigation.

“To honor the families, we are refraining from disclosing the names of the two pilots and two flight attendants at this point, but our hearts and thoughts are with their families,” Isom noted.

On Thursday morning, the airline’s CARE team, a group of specially trained professionals dedicated to providing support, arrived in both Washington, D.C. and Wichita, Kansas.

“I’m also present in D.C. with our GO Team members, and we are utilizing all available resources to ensure we meet the needs of the families and loved ones of our passengers and crew,” Isom stated, underscoring that “This remains our primary concern.”

The airline continues to engage with local, state, and federal agencies to coordinate emergency response efforts.

“The aviation community is closely connected, and I am confident we will stand by each other in the coming days and weeks,” he concluded.