Congressman Don Beyer and Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins have announced plans to establish a memorial bench and plaques at Rivergate City Park in Alexandria. The memorial will honor the 67 people who died in the collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and the PAT 25 U.S. Army helicopter at National Airport (DCA) on January 29, 2025.
“The 67 lives lost on flight 5432 and the U.S. Army helicopter were far more than a number. They were parents and children, partners and friends, colleagues and neighbors – people who carried dreams, responsibilities, laughter, and love. Their journeys ended far too soon, and their absence leaves a silence no words can fill,” said Rep. Don Beyer. “As we continue to build on our federal response to ensure this kind of tragedy never happens again, this memorial is one step toward honoring those we lost. This memorial will providea space for remembrance and reflection, to carry the memory of those we lost forward with dignity and care.”
“Alexandria will always hold those we lost on Flight 5342 and PAT 25 – and their loved ones – in our hearts, and it is my hope that this memorial will fulfill that promise,” said Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins. “This memorial bearing the names of all 67 individuals who lost their lives on that horrible day will be placed along the banks of the Potomac River, a peaceful setting where water moves steadily forward. It will serve as a place for quiet reflection, remembrance, and healing.”
Congressman Beyer has been active in promoting aviation safety following the accident. He called for a safety review after the crash between American Airlines Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army helicopter at DCA. He also advocated for halting military helicopter training near DCA airspace until further notice.
Beyer contributed to including language in the FY26 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations Act requiring an independent review by the Department of Transportation into DCA’s airspace safety procedures as well as civil-military coordination within the National Capital Region; this legislation has passed through the House of Representatives but awaits Senate consideration.
Additionally, Beyer was among those urging adoption of preliminary recommendations from the National Transportation Safety Board after its investigation into the incident.
