PRESS RELEASE
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) today joined the families of Flight 3407 as they commemorated the 9th anniversary of the 2009 Colgan Air Flight 3407 crash in Clarence. Throughout the past 9 years, these families have advocated for important flight safety reforms which have led to the longest period in our nation’s history without a fatal commercial crash.
“These families have experienced the ultimate tragedy, suddenly losing a spouse, child, brother or sister, although have never lost their determination to make sure other families don’t have to experience the same heartbreak,” said Collins. “I commend them for their tireless dedication to this important issue.”
Buffalo area families who lost loved ones during the 2009 Colgan crash became vocal advocates for flight safety reform and were instrumental in the Airline Safety and FAA Extension Act of 2010 being passed into law. This legislation put the flying public’s safety first by enhancing pilot training hours and establishing a pilot record database.
In addition to remembering the lives lost, the group addressed efforts by the nation’s regional airlines to water down stronger safety requirements enacted in the aftermath of the crash. In January, Collins spoke with Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao who gave assurance that the pilot training requirements will be kept in place.
Collins added: “During their hardest moments, these families came together to do something that all Americans are thankful for, keeping our skies safe. I will continue to work with the Trump Administration to make sure the safety of our flying public is prioritized and that these important pilot training qualifications are not taken away.”
