The figure skating community is reeling from the tragic news of the midair collision involving Jinna Han, a promising 13-year-old skater who lost her life along with her mother, Jin Han, and multiple others during the American Eagle Flight 5342 incident on January 29, 2025. This devastating accident unfolded as the flight was attempting to land at Ronald Reagan National Airport, colliding with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter—an incident now under rigorous investigation.
Jinna Han was known not just for her incredible talent on the ice but also for her vibrant spirit. Doug Zeghibe, the CEO and executive director of the Skatting Club of Boston, described her as "a wonderful kid, wonderful parents, great athlete, great competitor, loved by all." Zeghibe lamented the loss deeply, stating, "Our sport and this Club have suffered a horrible loss with this tragedy.” Jinna had been part of the club since 2020 and was highly regarded by coaches, peers, and members alike.
Coming back from the National Development Camp after participating in the U.S. Figure Skatting Championships, Jinna and her fellow skaters were aboard the ill-fated flight, which was unfortunately filled with the bright hopes and ambitions of several young athletes. Alongside Jinna and her mother were other skaters, including fellow club members Spencer Lane and Brielle Beyer, both of whom have also been recognized for their potential within the sport. The crash not only claimed their lives but also the hopes they carried for the future of U.S. figure skating.
The aftermath of this tragedy has turned to reflections of Jinna’s aspirations. During interviews prior to the accident, she beautifully conveyed her dreams of competing at the Olympics, stating, “It’s like, who’s going to win, what’s going to happen, because anything can happen at the Olympics.” Jinna's passion for the sport was palpable, and she drew admiration from her fellow athletes. Team USA figure skater Jimmy Ma remarked on Jinna's unparalleled talent, emphasizing her superior capabilities at such a young age.
Those who knew Jinna often referred to her as possessing "that fire"—a term used by Ma to depict her fierce dedication and infectious enthusiasm. Coaches and teammates described her as having "a beautiful spirit both on and off the ice," with Adam Blake, the club choreographer, noting her warm manner of saying hello to everyone around her. Such accolades paint the picture of not just an athlete but also of an exceptional individual.
The loss extended beyond just Jinna. The flight included among its passengers two esteemed Russian coaches, Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, both celebrated figures within the skating community, alongside multiple other athletes and their families. Sarah Hirshland, the CEO of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, shared her condolences, stating, “They were remarkable young people and talents, passionately pursuing their dreams, and they will forever hold a cherished place in the Team USA family.”
The crash occurred during what has already been described as precarious conditions for air travel. At 9 p.m. ET, Flight 5342 was reportedly returning to D.C. when the pilot mismanaged the approach landing, resulting in the catastrophic crash upon colliding with the Black Hawk during its own training mission. Both the flight and the helicopter plunged, resulting in what authorities indicate is likely no survivors.
While recovery efforts ensued immediately post-accident, the shocking nature of the events left the skating community grappling with immense grief, shock, and disbelief. U.S. Figure Skatting released statements echoing the depth of sorrow felt by all involved, and how deeply this loss would affect the community and the future of those who were onboard.
A memorial was held at the Skatting Club of Boston as the club members united to honor the memory of Jinna Han and the others who lost their lives. Such gatherings serve to remind everyone of the clan-like camaraderie present within the skating community. The phrase, “loss of family” articulated by Zeghibe resonates even more closely here, underlining how tightly knit these athletes, coaches, and families truly are.
Jinna's legacy will undoubtedly continue to shine brightly among those who knew her, and she will be remembered for both her skills and her spirit. With ambitions of Olympic greatness cut short, the promise of her potential lingers—a beacon of inspiration for future generations of skaters.