Mid-air collision over Potomac kills 67 as American Airlines jet hits Army helicopter. Fatal crash near Reagan National Airport leaves no survivors from regional flight and military aircraft.
In a tragic event that has gripped the nation’s capital, an American Airlines regional jet collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, leading to both aircraft crashing into the Potomac River. The incident, which occurred near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Wednesday night, resulted in no survivors, with all 67 aboard the two flights confirmed deceased by President Donald Trump.
The Incident
The collision happened at approximately 8:47 p.m. local time as American Eagle Flight 5342, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members from Wichita, Kansas, approached for landing on Runway 33 at Reagan National Airport. Simultaneously, an Army Black Hawk helicopter, on a training mission with three soldiers aboard, was in the vicinity, leading to the fatal mid-air impact.
Visual Documentation:
Video Footage from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts captured the chilling moment of collision, showing a bright explosion in the night sky.
Images of the emergency response depict rescue teams scouring the dark waters of the Potomac, with fireboats and divers at work amidst harsh weather conditions.
Immediate Response and Recovery Efforts
The scene turned from a rescue to a recovery operation as emergency services, including the U.S. Coast Guard, Metropolitan Police Department, and local fire departments, battled cold temperatures and icy waters to retrieve victims and wreckage. By early Thursday morning, at least 28 bodies had been recovered from the river, with ongoing efforts to locate the remaining.
Live Updates on the situation were continuously broadcast by news outlets like ABC and Reuters, detailing the scale of operations and the somber mood at the crash site.
Investigation and Statements
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has taken the lead in investigating the crash, with both the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder from the jet already recovered. The Army and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are also involved in the probe, which will look into aspects like air traffic control communications, weather conditions, and operational procedures at the time of the crash.
Recordings of air traffic control discussions have been made public, highlighting the confusion and urgency post-collision.
Political and Public Reaction
President Trump addressed the media, attributing the disaster to what he described as “lowered standards” in air traffic control hiring and operation, without providing evidence. However, he also acknowledged the investigation’s early stage.
The incident has sparked renewed debate on air safety, particularly around the crowded airspace of the nation’s capital, with previous close calls at National Airport being referenced in public discourse.
Impact on the Community
The tragedy has deeply affected the Washington, D.C., area, with condolences pouring in from local leaders and international figures. The victims include notable figures from the figure skating community, professionals from various sectors, and military personnel, reflecting a broad cross-section of society.
Community Response: Local residents have shared their immediate reactions to the event, with some witnessing the horror unfold from their homes.
For more detailed coverage:
CBS News provides updates on the recovery operations and victim identification.
The nation mourns as investigations continue, with a focus on understanding this catastrophic event to prevent future tragedies. The community of Washington, D.C., stands united in grief and support for the families and friends of those lost.
