The family of Casey Crafton, a victim of January's devastating Washington, D.C. midair collision, has escalated their pursuit of justice by filing $250 million claims against both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the U.S. Army. This unprecedented legal move targets systemic aviation safety failures surrounding North America's deadliest air disaster in 25 years, which claimed 67 lives including three military personnel.
Robert Clifford, attorney for Crafton's widow Rachel, called the collision a preventable tragedy rooted in negligence.
This disaster was waiting to happen,Clifford stated, emphasizing the case's role in exposing airport oversight gaps. Crafton, a 38-year-old aviation consultant and father of three, was returning from a business trip when planes collided near Reagan National Airport.
The Chicago-based Clifford Law Offices utilized the Federal Tort Claims Act to initiate proceedings, with potential federal lawsuits looming if agencies reject settlements. While $250 million per claim appears high, attorneys argue it reflects lifetime earnings loss for the Connecticut family. Crafton’s sons, aged 5-11, face futures without their youth sports coach father.
Key unresolved questions driving the wrongful death lawsuits include:
- Military helicopter’s flight path authorization
- Air traffic control communications breakdowns
- Radar system limitations at Reagan National
Despite preservation letters sent to American Airlines and Sikorsky Aircraft manufacturers, Clifford confirmed litigation currently focuses on government agencies. The ongoing NTSB investigation’s findings could expand defendants. Army spokesperson Maj. Montrell Russell declined comment, citing respect for victims’ families.
With six months for federal responses, this aviation lawsuit may set precedents for airline liability and military-civilian airspace coordination. As the Crafton family awaits accountability, their case underscores urgent calls for modernized flight safety protocols.
