The pilots of the American Eagle jet that collided midair over Washington, D.C., have been identified as Captain Jonathan Campos, 34, and First Officer Samuel Lilley, 28.
Lilley, engaged and nearing promotion to captain, was deeply passionate about flying. His father, Timothy, a fellow pilot, recalled the devastation of learning his son was on the doomed flight. “This is the worst day of my life,” he said.
Campos, originally from New York, pursued his dream at Epic Flight Academy, becoming a commercial pilot in 2018. His uncle described him as deeply dedicated to his career.
Both families are in shock as they mourn their loved ones, while investigations into the crash continue.