The chances of aviation accidents are just 1 per every 13.7 million passenger boardings. It's safer to board a plane than to drive a car. But low probability doesn't mean no probability. Aviation accidents still happen, and in most cases, they're fatal.
There have been six aviation accidents in 2025, and one of the most fatal was the mid-air collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter that took the lives of 67 people.
If you're the bereaved of a person who lost their life to an aviation accident, there are a few steps you need to take.
Give Yourself Time to Grieve
The first step is the most important. Losing someone is challenging to bear, and losing someone unexpectedly because of an aviation accident is even more challenging. It's essential to give you and your family time to grieve.
Expect a barrage of reporters trying to get your thoughts on the matter. You should also expect the next few weeks to constantly remind you of what has happened because the media will talk about it a lot. During this challenging time, keep your family close, as you'll need each other more.
Contact the Airline and Secure Medical Documents
This is an essential step if you're planning to take legal action. You can acquire medical records and death certificates from the attending hospital or coroner.
If you're unsure who to request these documents from, contact the airlines managing the flights. The Aviation Disaster Family Assistance Act of 1996 requires airlines to provide a few things for bereaved families. These include:
- Toll-free telephone line for family
- Free transportation to the accident area
- Charge-free return of remains
The airlines will also provide constant updates on the investigation.
Wait For the Investigation
Aviation accidents don't just happen without reason. Keep in mind that three parties can usually be held liable: the pilot, the airline, and the airplane manufacturer. But in some cases, like in American Airlines Flight 5342, the US government can also be liable because it was their helicopter that collided with the plane.
Determining what went wrong and who's responsible is important because you, as the bereaved, can take legal action and get compensated.
In the US, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigates aviation accidents. They can take 12-18 months to investigate the case. In most cases, the NTSB will hold public meetings to discuss their findings, and you can attend these meetings to get more clarification.
The report's conclusion is vital because it helps you understand who is liable for the accident. While waiting, you can prepare by choosing the proper legal representation and evaluating your case.
Get a Free Evaluation of Your Case at The Law Offices of Sean M. Cleary
We at the Law Offices of Sean M. Cleary have years of experience with wrongful death cases like these and we are here to help you. You'll need an experienced aviation attorney to help you understand your rights and let you know what you can do to get just compensation. Reach out to us now, and attorney Sean M. Cleary will evaluate your case for free.