The aviation community is mourning the loss of Sam Lilley, a 28-year-old American Airlines pilot who tragically lost his life in a mid-air collision near Washington, D.C. Sam, who was engaged to be married, shared his father Timothy Lilley’s passion for flying. Timothy, a veteran military helicopter pilot, is now grappling with the unimaginable pain of losing his son.
The crash occurred on January 29 when the PSA Airlines flight Sam was co-piloting collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport. Timothy, who was in New York on business at the time, initially dismissed the idea that his son could be involved. But as hours passed without hearing from Sam—a young man who never missed a check-in—his worst fears were confirmed.
“This is without a doubt the worst day of my life,” Timothy shared in a heartfelt Facebook post. He described Sam as a dedicated pilot who had pursued his dream of flying after initially working in marketing. Sam had been with PSA Airlines for two years and was preparing to marry his fiancée later this year.
Timothy finds solace in the legacy his son left behind, remembering him as a joyful, loving person who lived life to the fullest. “I was so proud when Sam became a pilot,” he said. “My heart is aching, but I know I’ll see him again.”
As investigations into the crash continue, Timothy hopes for answers and accountability. He believes the military helicopter may have made a critical error, while the PSA flight followed proper protocols. The aviation community has rallied around the Lilley family, offering condolences and support during this devastating time.
