A survivor of the devastating 1982 Air Florida Flight 90 crash into the Potomac River has shared his reflections on the recent midair collision over the same waters, drawing parallels between the two tragedies. Joseph Stiley, now 86, was one of only five survivors when Flight 90 struck the 14th Street Bridge moments after takeoff, plunging into the icy river and claiming 78 lives. The January 29th collision between an American Airlines flight and an Army Black Hawk helicopter, resulting in 64 fatalities, evoked poignant memories for Stiley.
Stiley, a licensed pilot at the time, credits his survival to his aviation training and quick thinking. He curled into a brace position, protecting himself from the impact. He recalls the harrowing moments after the crash, regaining consciousness in the frigid water and helping fellow survivors escape the wreckage. He assisted his assistant, Patricia Felch, and another survivor, Priscilla Tirado, who tragically lost her son and baby in the disaster.
Stiley suffered extensive injuries, breaking 60 bones, and remains handicapped to this day. Despite his physical challenges, he expresses gratitude for his survival and emphasizes the importance of his decisive actions. His heart goes out to the families affected by the recent collision, particularly the children and spouses who lost loved ones.
The National Transportation Safety Board's investigation into the recent collision is ongoing. Statistics reveal a concerning number of non-combat military aircraft crashes since 2012, and several near misses have been reported at Reagan National Airport in recent years.
