Buffalo, New York – February 10th, 2016 – Just days prior to the 7th anniversary of the crash, the ‘Families of Continental Flight 3407’ announced that group members would be in attendance at Thursday’s mark-up of the FAA Reauthorization Bill (Aviation Innovation, Reform & Reauthorization (AIRR) Act) by the House’s Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The group remains on high alert to any potential amendments introduced in committee or on the floor that would water down stronger entry-level pilot qualification requirements for regional airline first officers.
“We hearken back to the advice of Senator Dorgan when we first met with him in May 2009 – keep showing up,” stated John Kausner of Clarence Center, New York, who lost his twenty four year old daughter Ellyce. “This Friday will mark seven years since we lost Elly in a very preventable tragedy, and we remain as determined as ever to make sure that no other family has to feel the pain that we have. Hopefully our presence will serve as a strong reminder to the members of the committee of the importance of remaining vigilant when it comes to regional airline safety.”
In addition to this Friday marking seven years since the crash occurred, it will also mark seven years with no fatal commercial airline crashes on U.S. carriers. The group highlighted that record in its plea to T&I Committee leadership, in advance of Thursday’s mark-up, which will be held at 10:00 am in room 2167 Rayburn House Office Building.
“There can be no mistake that the heightened scrutiny of regional airlines brought about by the combined efforts of Congress, FAA, DOT, airlines, pilots, and safety groups like ourselves has contributed to increased safety over the past seven years since the crash of Flight 3407,” stated Susan Bourque of East Aurora, New York who lost her sister and noted 9/11 widow Beverly Eckert. “We cannot give in to industry pressure and take our foot off the gas in this regard. We call on the ‘Big Four’ of Congressmen Shuster, DeFazio, LoBiondo, and Larsen to continue to stand up for ‘One Level of Safety’ and the stronger safety standards that have been been put in place over the last seven years, in honor of the memories of our loved ones.”