Katharine McPhee Foster is mourning flight attendant Ian Epstein, who died in the recent American Airlines plane crash.
“I remember this man on one of our many flights,” McPhee Foster, 40, wrote via her Instagram Stories on Friday, January 31. “He was a gem just like you see. We had a great conversation.”
She continued, “So warm and fun. Rest in peace, kind man 
.”
Epstein was one of 67 individuals who died in the Wednesday, January 29, plane crash outside of Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. A commercial plane traveling from Wichita, Kansas and a military helicopter collided mid-air before the aircraft crashed into the Potomac River. There were no survivors.
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After law enforcement confirmed that Epstein was listed among the casualties, many frequent travelers took to social media to reflect on their own experiences with the late flight attendant.
“Flight Attendant Ian Epstein wasn’t just a crew member — he was the heart of every flight he worked,” travel influencer Jay Robert wrote via Instagram on Friday. “Through his quick wit and infectious humor, he turned routine trips into moments of joy, making passengers smile even on the most stressful travel days.”
According to Robert, the Charlotte-based flight attendant was known for his “comedic PA” announcements.
“[They brought] proof of the laughter and warmth he brought to the skies. Now we all can experience the magic he brought to flight,” Robert wrote in his tribute. “Ian was a testament to what it means to be a great flight attendant — not just making passengers feel safe and comfortable, but making them love flying. In an era where air travel is often met with frustration, Ian’s infectious spirit reminded everyone of the magic of flight.”
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He concluded, “The United By Wings network at A Fly Guy’s Cabin Crew Lounge salutes Ian for the passion he brought to our profession. His legacy of kindness, laughter, and love for aviation will forever bring pride to the wings we wear.”
Epstein was among the four crew members and 60 passengers who died in the tragic incident, including 14 youth figure skaters traveling home from a recent U.S. Figure Skating development training camp in Kansas.
“We are devastated by this unspeakable tragedy and hold the victims’ families closely in our hearts,” a statement from the organization read. “We will continue to monitor the situation and will release more information as it becomes available.”
