A devastating midair collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter on January 29, 2023, resulted in the tragic loss of 64 lives, including several figure skaters and coaches. Among the victims was 13-year-old Jinna Han, a member of The Skating Club of Boston, who left an indelible mark on her community with her talent and vibrant personality. This incident has deeply affected the skating world, as many individuals remember those lost with fondness and admiration.

The Impact on the Skating Community

The skating community is mourning the loss of several talented individuals who were aboard the ill-fated flight. Fourteen U.S. figure skaters, including Jinna Han, were among the passengers. Jinna had been part of The Skating Club of Boston since 2020 and was known for her exceptional skating abilities and cheerful demeanor. Her coach, Evgenia Shishkova, and Vadim Naumov, both former world champions, were also among the victims. These losses have left an immense void in the hearts of those who knew them.

Jinna's last major competition was at the 2025 Eastern Sectionals, where she performed brilliantly, earning fourth place overall. Her performance showcased her skill and passion for the sport. Fellow skaters and coaches remember her not only for her talent but also for her warm smile and friendly nature. Misha Mitrofanov, a Team USA Skater, shared that Jinna's presence always brought joy to those around her. Jimmy Ma, another skater, praised her remarkable abilities, noting that her level of skill was extraordinary for her age. The skating community will forever cherish Jinna's memory and the impact she had on everyone she met.

Honoring the Victims and Their Contributions

The tragedy extends beyond just the skaters, as it has touched the lives of many within the skating community. Several notable figures have spoken out about the profound effect this incident has had on them. Olympian Mirai Nagasu expressed how personal the loss feels due to her connection with some of the families involved. Nancy Kerrigan, a former Olympic skater and a member of The Skating Club of Boston, described the situation as "heart-wrenching," emphasizing the significance of each life lost.

In addition to Jinna, other victims included Spencer Lane and his mother Christine Lane, as well as coaches Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov. Inna Volyanskaya, a former Soviet pair skater and coach, was also among those who perished. The U.S. Figure Skating organization confirmed that these athletes, coaches, and family members were returning from the National Development Camp held in conjunction with the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas. The community is coming together to honor the memory of all those lost, celebrating their contributions to the sport and the lasting impressions they made on everyone they encountered.