House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole and Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Subcommittee Chairman Steve Womack have issued a statement following a mid-air collision at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The incident occurred yesterday, leaving families to cope with loss and shock.

Cole and Womack expressed their condolences: “Right now, families are facing unthinkable news as they grapple with devastating loss and shock. Our hearts are with every passenger, their loved ones, and the first responders on the scene."

The chairmen emphasized the importance of response efforts: "As critical response and recovery operations continue - we are praying for strength for all." They assured that Congress will work closely with relevant agencies including the National Transportation Safety Board, Federal Aviation Administration, Department of Defense, and other federal stakeholders to address any questions arising from the incident.

They reiterated their commitment to public safety: "The safety and security of the public and our aviation systems are paramount, and oversight is essential to those obligations." As investigations proceed, they noted that "the nation comes together with compassion and support, grieving alongside those facing profound loss.”