Long Political Career Draws Praise

A DeHavilland DHC-3T carrying nine people crashed near Dillingham, Alaska, killing former Alaska Senator Theodore "Ted" Stevens and four other people on board and injuring four others, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported today. Former National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Administrator Sean O'Keefe was also on board the aircraft but survived.

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families of those involved in the crash," National Air Transportation Association (NATA) President James K. Coyne stated.

"Our country lost a great American today. Chairman Stevens was a remarkable member of the U.S. Senate as well as a steadfast supporter of the general aviation community, especially in the state of Alaska." Stevens was 86 years old.

Ted Stevens served in the United States Senate from December 24, 1968, until January 3, 2009. In 1944, Stevens received his wings from the Army Air Force Air Cadet program. He flew C-46 and C-47 transport planes, and received many medals and awards for flying behind enemy lines. He attended the University of California Los Angeles and Harvard Law School. In 1978, Stevens survived the crash of a Learjet 25C at Anchorage International Airport that killed his first wife, Ann, and five other people. 
 
Stevens' impressive political career includes serving as chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee from 1997 to 2005, chairman of the Senate Rules Committee, and president pro tempore when Republicans regained control of the chamber as a result of the 2002 mid-term elections.

Sean O'Keefe is currently the chief executive officer of EADS North America. He served as NASA administrator under President George H.W. Bush from 2001 to 2005. O'Keefe is 54 years old.

The NTSB has launched a Go-Team to investigate the airplane crash. NTSB Chairman Deborah Hersman is accompanying the team and will serve as spokesperson for the on-site investigation.

FMI: www.nata.aero