Remembers Stevens, Lauds O'Keefe

NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen today expressed his condolences to the victims of a plane crash in Alaska that involved nine persons, including former Senator Ted Stevens (R-AK) and former NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe. "Our prayers are with the people involved in this tragic accident, as well as their families," Bolen said.

Upon learning that Sen. Stevens had died in the crash, Bolen said: "NBAA is deeply saddened by this loss. As chairman of the Senate's Appropriations and Commerce Committees, Senator Stevens was tireless in promoting aviation in Alaska and throughout the United States. He understood, and made sure others understood, the critical role aviation plays in our nation's economy and transportation system. He fought constantly to keep the United States the world leader in all aspects of aviation, including general aviation."

Following reports that O'Keefe was among the survivors in the crash, Bolen praised him as a widely admired public servant, having served not only as NASA administrator, but also as deputy director for the Office of Management and Budget, and before that as acting secretary of the United States Navy.

"Time and again, when our nation has turned to Sean O'Keefe for his leadership, he has answered the call," Bolen said.

Reports indicate that, shortly after 8:00 p.m. local time on August 9, a 1957 DeHavilland DHC-3 Otter crashed about 20 miles north of Dillingham. State and federal officials report that severe weather conditions have hampered the rescue effort. The National Transportation Safety Board has announced that an NTSB "Go Team" is en route to the accident site to conduct a full, official investigation.

FMI: www.nbaa.org