A heartbreaking moment was captured when American Airlines gave a heartfelt tribute for the plane carrying the remains of the flight crew killed in the tragic crash in Washington, DC.
The crew’s body was being brought back to Charlotte after last week’s horrific accident that killed 67 people.
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The tragic event claimed 67 lives
The crash happened when a passenger jet collided with an Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport, just above the Potomac River on January 29, 2025.
Among those lost were four crew members based in Charlotte, including flight attendant Ian Epstein.
A touching tribute on the tarmac
American Airlines marked the moment with a powerful water cannon salute. Fire trucks shot arcs of water over the plane as it made its way to the waiting hearse. It was an emotional sight for everyone present.
Emotional reactions from social media
People online were so moved by the footage of the tribute. One person wrote, “Such a beautiful tribute for a beautiful soul. Ian Epstein will never be forgotten. Rest in peace.”
Another said, “I hope they didn’t feel any pain and that they were greeted by angels.”
Remembering Ian Epstein’s vibrant spirit
A video showing Ian Epstein in his element has surfaced, capturing the “world’s best flight attendant” chatting and joking with passengers.
He was 53, always bubbly, and in this clip, you can see him having fun, reminding everyone how important they were.
Colleagues and passengers shared tributes to Ian Epstein
Colleagues had so many nice things to say about Ian. One wrote, “Ian, it was an honor flying with you. You were an angel on Earth and now you’re one in heaven. Fly high, Ian. Rest in paradise.”
Another recalled how Ian gave a heartfelt speech about kindness during the holidays on a flight from New York to Charlotte on Christmas Eve.
The lives and legacies of the crew members
Ian wasn’t the only one we lost that day. He was flying with Danasia Elder, 34, and two pilots — Captain Jonathan Campos, 34, and First Officer Samuel Lilley, 29.
Campos was originally from New York but grew up in Florida. He became a certified flight instructor in 2017, and by 2018, he was flying commercial planes.
Ian Epstein made friends everywhere he went
Epstein’s family remembers him as someone who made friends with everyone he met. He had been a flight attendant for many years and leaves behind two children and two stepchildren, according to his sister, Robbie Bloom.
Ian Epstein’s family reflects on his life
“He always talked about the people he met on his flights like they were all new friends,” Bloom said in an interview.
“My brother was just such a wonderful person. He loved life, he loved his job, he loved traveling, and he loved his family. He will be deeply missed.”
Gratitude for first responders and the aviation community
Many people have shared their gratitude toward the first responders who helped bring the bodies of those lost back to their families.
One person wrote, “Thank you to the first responders for bringing him home to his family. Thank you for your kindness, Ian. We’ll try to carry it on.”
A legacy of kindness and joy that will never be forgotten
“Ian was the kind of person who made everyone feel like they were in first class, even if their seat was in the very back row,” said one person who shared the video of him on social media.
“He always reminded us why we have jobs. It’s because of people like you, and we appreciate you.” In the video, you can hear Ian making jokes over the intercom as he spoke, adding to the warmth of his personality.
Ian Epstein’s legacy will always be remembered, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him. Fly high, Ian.
