U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska has issued a statement concerning the preliminary report released by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) on the Bering Air crash that occurred in February, resulting in the deaths of ten Alaskans.
Senator Sullivan, who serves on the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, stated: “I was recently briefed by the NTSB Chairwoman, Jennifer Homendy, on the findings of this preliminary report and it’s important to emphasize that it’s still preliminary. The chairwoman and the acting FAA administrator will be testifying next week in front of the Senate Commerce Committee, and I will continue my focus on Alaska aviation safety at that hearing. Once again, our hearts go out to the families and friends of those lost during this tragic accident.”
In response to this incident, Senator Sullivan held a press conference in February alongside fellow Alaskan lawmakers Senator Lisa Murkowski and Representative Nick Begich. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy were also present as they discussed their commitment to improving aviation safety in Alaska.
Previously, in May 2024, legislation known as FAA Reauthorization was enacted with provisions authored by Senator Sullivan aimed specifically at enhancing aviation safety within Alaska.
The complete preliminary report is available for public viewing.
