Who Is Samuel Lilley? American Airlines Pilot Involved In Plane Crash

Timothy Lilley, a former military helicopter pilot, has confirmed that his 28-year-old son, Sam Lilley, was one of the two pilots on the American Airlines flight. “This is definitely the worst day of my life,” Timothy shared with FOX 5 Atlanta from Washington, D.C.
While in New York for work, Timothy initially found it hard to believe that his son’s flight was involved. “When I saw on Fox News about the crash in D.C. last night, I really thought there was no way it could be my son,” he recounted. However, after not hearing from Sam, who always kept in touch, his worst fears were realized.
Both Timothy and Sam had a shared love for flying; Sam began his flight training in 2019 and had been working with PSA Airlines, a subsidiary of American Airlines, for two years. He was also engaged to be married.
Having served 20 years as a helicopter pilot in the Army, Timothy understands the complexities of aviation operations. “In the ’90s, I frequently flew in and out of the Pentagon, and I can tell you that if you’re flying over the Potomac with night vision goggles, it will be very difficult to see that plane. Without the goggles, you might have a better chance,” he explained.
He believes that the PSA jet was following the correct protocols, but the military helicopter made a tragic mistake. “From what I can see, those pilots turned right into the jet. I think the PSA jet was doing everything correctly. The Army pilot made a serious error. It pains me because those are my brothers, and now my son is gone,” Timothy expressed.