28-Year-Old Pilot Dies in Tragic Plane Crash Near Washington—His Father’s Heartbreaking Words

A father is heartbroken after losing his 28-year-old son in a plane crash. The young pilot, who shared his father’s love for flying, was engaged and looking forward to his wedding.

Source: Facebook/tim.lilley.33

Sam Lilley was one of the two pilots on an American Airlines flight that crashed after colliding with a military helicopter near Reagan National Airport on the night of January 29. His father, Timothy Lilley, a former military helicopter pilot, is devastated by his son’s tragic death.

Timothy was in New York for work when news of the crash in Washington, D.C., broke. At first, he didn’t think his son was involved. But as time passed and Sam, who always checked in, remained silent, his fear turned into painful reality.

Source: Facebook/tim.lilley.33

“This is the worst day of my life,” Timothy said after learning his son was on the flight and didn’t survive. He shared his grief in a heartfelt Facebook post, writing, “Sam was the First Officer on the flight that crashed in DC last night. It is so devastating to lose someone that is loved so much.”

Timothy, who served as an Army helicopter pilot for 20 years, shared a strong passion for aviation with his son. Sam started his flight training in 2019 and had been flying with PSA Airlines, a subsidiary of American Airlines, for two years.

Sam graduated from Georgia Southern University in 2018 with a marketing degree but soon realized flying was his true calling. His father recalled how he worked hard to achieve his dream of becoming a pilot.

Source: Facebook/tim.lilley.33

Beyond his career, Sam was also planning his future with his fiancée. Their wedding was set for the fall. As Timothy grieves, he finds comfort in knowing how much Sam accomplished in his life. “I was so proud when Sam became a pilot. Now it hurts so bad I can’t even cry myself to sleep. I know I’ll see him again, but my heart is breaking,” he said.

When asked how he wanted Sam to be remembered, Timothy described his son as a kind and happy person who lived life to the fullest. He said Sam was always ready to help others and lived his Christian faith through his actions.

Sam’s close friend and fellow pilot, Skeeter Little, cherishes the memories they shared. “The man had a smile every day. He had the best jokes,” Skeeter said. During flight school, Sam’s humor and energy made their training unforgettable.

Source: Facebook/tim.lilley.33

“Sam wanted nothing more than to be a pilot. His dad was a pilot. We’re all trying to achieve the same goal—become pilots,” Skeeter added. He explained that aviation is a close-knit community where everyone plays a role in ensuring flights are safe.

Sam was a respected part of this community, dedicating himself to flying and working his way up to First Officer at American Airlines—a position he had long dreamed of. Now, the aviation world is mourning the loss of one of its own.

Fellow pilots and airline staff have shared emotional tributes on social media, offering their condolences. Skeeter urged everyone to appreciate their loved ones, saying, “Thoughts to all the families. Prayers. Hug your loved ones. Tragic things happen. Clear skies and tailwinds.”

The PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 that Sam was flying had departed from Wichita, Kansas. As it approached Runway 33 at Reagan National Airport, it collided with a Sikorsky H-60 military helicopter. Both aircraft crashed into the Potomac River.

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Georgia House Majority Caucus Whip James Burchett expressed his condolences to the families. He assured them that investigators are working to determine the cause of the crash and how to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

As an experienced helicopter pilot, Sam’s father understands the dangers of flying, especially near the Potomac River at night. He explained that flying with night vision goggles can reduce visibility, making it harder to see other aircraft. “If you’re not wearing the goggles, then you might have a chance,” he said.

Based on what he has seen, Timothy believes the PSA jet was following proper procedures, while the military helicopter made a fatal mistake. “From what I can see, those guys turned right into the jet. I think the PSA jet was doing everything right. The Army pilot made a grave error. It hurts me because those are my brothers, and now my son is dead,” he said.

U.S. President Donald Trump provided an update on the crash, confirming that the search and rescue operation had turned into a recovery mission, as there were no survivors. He praised emergency responders for their efforts in using all available resources to assist.

The president also promised to support the affected families and ensure they receive the answers they need. “We do not know what led to this crash, but we have strong opinions and ideas. We will find out how this disaster happened and make sure nothing like this ever happens again,” he stated.

As of now, at least 40 bodies have been recovered from the Potomac River, according to law enforcement. Investigators have also retrieved the plane’s black boxes, which will provide critical information about what happened before the crash.