FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 3/21/2002

The National Transportation Safety Board investigation of the crash of EgyptAir Flight 990 has concluded.

The thoroughly credible report, and the well-documented evidence on which it is based, leave no doubt that Gamil el Batouty intentionally destroyed the aircraft. There is no evidence of mechanical cause. The data from the flight data recorder includes a series of cockpit-initiated, controlled maneuvers that culminates in a simultaneous, double-engine shutdown, and points to the deliberate destruction of the aircraft and those aboard.

American families regret that Egypt continues to resist this unavoidable conclusion, even after the events of September 11. We regret in particular that the Egyptian government has frustrated the investigation into the family, background, and associates of Gamil el Batouty. We call upon President George W. Bush to move beyond his predecessor's failure of leadership in this matter, and ensure that a full criminal investigation takes place.

All families and friends of those lost can be grateful for the NTSB's painstaking investigation and report, completed in a difficult international political environment. We all certainly are grateful for NTSB’s Office of Family Affairs, who helped make a nightmarish situation manageable.

For further information, please contact

Jim Brokaw, President

Families of EgyptAir 990, Inc

219.762.4003