Benton Times

House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole and Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Subcommittee Chairman Steve Womack have issued a statement following a mid-air collision at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The incident has left families grappling with devastating loss and shock.

In their joint statement, Cole and Womack expressed their condolences: “Right now, families are facing unthinkable news as they grapple with devastating loss and shock. Our hearts are with every passenger, their loved ones, and the first responders on the scene.”

They emphasized the importance of ongoing response efforts: “As critical response and recovery operations continue - we are praying for strength for all.”

The Chairmen assured that Congress will work closely with relevant agencies to address the situation. They stated, “Congress and this Committee will closely coordinate with the National Transportation Safety Board, Federal Aviation Administration, Department of Defense, and federal stakeholders to ensure questions have answers.”

Highlighting the priority of public safety in aviation systems, they added: “The safety and security of the public and our aviation systems are paramount, and oversight is essential to those obligations.”

As investigations proceed, Cole and Womack called for national solidarity: “As we await forthcoming information, the nation comes together with compassion and support, grieving alongside those facing profound loss.”