American Airlines CEO expresses ‘deep sorrow’ over crash near DC

American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed “deep sorrow” about the crash that occurred near Reagan Washington National Airport in Virginia on Wednesday.

Isom, in a video statement, said the aircraft was operated by PSA Airlines, a subsidiary of American Airlines.

There were 60 passengers and four crew members on board the flight from Wichita, Kan., to Washington. Officials said they were switching their operation from a rescue mission to a recovery mission, as they believe there were no survivors from the plane that collided with a military helicopter.

“First and most importantly, I’d like to express our deep sorrow about these events,” Isom said. “This is a difficult day for all of us at American Airlines and our efforts now are focused entirely on the needs of our passengers, crew members, partners, first responders, along with their families and loved ones.”

Isom noted the company was working with local, state and federal authorities to assess the crash and respond to the situation.

“We’re cooperating fully with the National Transportation Safety Board and its investigation and will continue to provide all the information we can,” he said.

The airline chief added that the company wants to learn everything it can about the crash but acknowledged it “will take time.”

Isom, who joined authorities at a press conference Thursday morning, said that the company was “absolutely heartbroken” about the “devastating” crash and offered help to friends and family who are looking for more information about impacted passengers.

Members of American Airlines’s “Go team” are being deployed to aid the situation.

“I know that there are many questions in this early stage I just won’t be able to answer many, but we’ll provide additional information as it comes,” Isom added.