An American Airlines regional passenger jet collided with a military helicopter while attempting to land at Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday night, just before 9 p.m.
Search and Rescue Efforts Underway
Emergency services are currently searching the Potomac River near the airport for survivors. According to law enforcement sources, there are confirmed fatalities, with no survivors yet found. CBS News reports that 18 bodies have been recovered, and divers are searching three separate debris fields.
Details of the Incident
The airline has confirmed that there were 60 passengers and four crew members aboard Flight 5342, which was en route from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington. The plane is said to have broken into two pieces and is submerged in about seven feet of water. The helicopter, a Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk, was found upside down and unstable.
Emergency Response and FAA Investigation
Images from the scene show emergency teams in boats around what appears to be part of the fuselage and a wing protruding from the river. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the jet, a Bombardier CRJ700, collided with the Army helicopter while approaching Runway 33.
Defense officials have confirmed that the Black Hawk was carrying three soldiers on a training flight. Air traffic control audio reveals that just before the crash, a controller asked the helicopter, “PAT25, do you have the CRJ in sight?” A nearby pilot, seconds after the collision, asked, “Tower, did you see that?” Authorities immediately began diverting other planes from Reagan National.
Police and Airport Response
DC Police stated that at 8:53 p.m., they received multiple reports of the crash over the Potomac. Emergency services, including DC Fire and EMS, the Metropolitan Police Department, and other agencies, are coordinating the search and rescue effort. At that point, no confirmed casualty information had been released. The airport halted all takeoffs and landings and assured the terminal remained open.
Footage Captures the Moment of Impact
Footage from the scene shows emergency teams on the riverside and helicopters with searchlights scanning the area. A nearby camera at the Kennedy Center captured what appears to be two aircraft converging in a fireball. Surveillance video from the airport also shows the moment of impact.
Weather Conditions and Time Constraints
Flight tracking data shows the plane’s final approach over the Potomac before communication was lost. NBC Meteorologist Doug Kammerer reported that the water temperature at the time of the crash was around 37°F, meaning anyone in the water could face hypothermia within 15 to 20 minutes.
Family Reactions and Public Concerns
Hamaad Ramza, speaking with WUSA on Wednesday evening, revealed that his wife was onboard the plane. “I’m just praying that someone is pulling her out of the river right now as we speak,” he said, clearly distraught.
Search Efforts and Emergency Presence
As the rescue operation continued, a small crowd gathered at Daingerfield Island in Virginia to watch the search. Emergency vehicles on the Washington side of the river lit up the Capitol and the Washington Monument, while further units waited near the airport runway. Police closed roads leading to the airport, which remained mostly empty.
Public Statements and Political Response
Kansas Senator Roger Marshall expressed concern over the incident on X, urging people to pray for the passengers and their families. The White House confirmed the crash, with press secretary Karoline Leavitt stating that President Trump had been briefed. Trump later issued a statement offering condolences and praising first responders.
American Airlines Statement and Ongoing Investigation
American Airlines confirmed that Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, was involved in the incident and promised to provide updates as more information became available. Vice President JD Vance also urged people to pray for those involved.
The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the crash, with the NTSB taking the lead. The FAA confirmed that the collision took place as the regional jet, traveling from Wichita, Kansas, was attempting to land at Reagan National. American Airlines has provided a helpline for those seeking information about loved ones who may have been on board.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What caused the crash between the American Airlines jet and the military helicopter?
The FAA and the NTSB are still investigating the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports suggest the two aircraft collided while the jet was attempting to land at Reagan National Airport.
How many people were on board the American Airlines flight?
Flight 5342, which was traveling from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, D.C., had 60 passengers and four crew members.
How many casualties have been confirmed so far?
Law enforcement sources confirmed fatalities, with 18 bodies reported recovered from the crash site. The search for additional survivors continues.
What type of helicopter was involved in the crash?
The helicopter involved in the incident was a Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk, an Army aircraft used for training purposes. At the time of the collision, it was carrying three soldiers.
Where is the crash site located?
The crash occurred over the Potomac River near Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C.
Are there any survivors from the crash?
No survivors have been confirmed at this time, but emergency responders are still searching the river for potential survivors.
What are the weather conditions like in the area?
The water temperature in the Potomac River at the time of the crash was around 37°F, which poses a risk of hypothermia for anyone in the water for more than 15 to 20 minutes.
How can I find out if my loved one was on the flight?
American Airlines has set up a helpline for people who believe their loved ones were aboard Flight 5342. Those seeking information should call 800-679-8215.
Conclusion
The tragic collision between an American Airlines regional jet and a military helicopter near Reagan National Airport has shocked the nation, leading to a massive search and rescue operation. While the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, the event has claimed multiple lives, with emergency services working tirelessly to recover victims. The FAA and NTSB are leading the inquiry to determine the circumstances surrounding this devastating incident. As the investigation continues, the families of the victims remain in the thoughts of many, and authorities are working to provide further updates as soon as possible.