On January 29, 2025, a tragic incident occurred near Washington, D.C., when an American Airlines flight collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, resulting in the deaths of all 14 individuals on board. Among the victims were several prominent members of the figure skating community, including athletes, coaches, and their family members.
The passengers included teenage skaters Jinna Han and Spencer Lane, along with their mothers, who were affiliated with the Skating Club of Boston. ([espn.com](https://www.espn.com/olympics/story/_/id/43621460/figure-skaters-onboard-plane-crash-washington-dc?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Additionally, Russian figure skating coaches Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, both former Olympic medalists, were aboard the flight. ([npr.org](https://www.npr.org/2025/01/30/nx-s1-5280189/dc-plane-crash-figure-skaters?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
U.S. Figure Skating confirmed that several members of the skating community were on the flight, expressing deep sorrow over the loss. ([si.com](https://www.si.com/olympics/us-figure-skaters-were-on-plane-that-crashed-in-washington-dc?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
This devastating event has profoundly impacted the figure skating world, as the victims were not only accomplished athletes and coaches but also beloved mentors and friends. The loss of these individuals is a significant blow to the community, and tributes have poured in from around the world honoring their contributions to the sport.
The investigation into the collision is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the exact causes of the crash to prevent future tragedies.
As the figure skating community mourns this profound loss, the memories and legacies of those who perished will continue to inspire and influence the sport for years to come.
