A tragic mid-air collision between an American Airlines jet and a military helicopter occurred near Washington DC Reagan National Airport. The crash led to a catastrophic plunge into the icy Potomac River. This incident occurred on Wednesday night, prompting a massive emergency response. As a result, all flights were temporarily grounded.
The aircraft was a Bombardier regional jet operated by American Airlines subsidiary PSA Airlines. It was on approach to Reagan National Airport after departing from Kansas. American Airlines confirmed that 64 people, including four crew members, were aboard.
Authorities have already recovered at least 18 bodies, according to CBS News. Additionally, NBC reported that over a dozen had been found. Search-and-rescue operations are still ongoing.
Military Helicopter Involvement
A US Army Black Hawk helicopter was also involved in the collision. It carried three soldiers whose status remains unknown. The military confirmed that the helicopter was on a training exercise at the time.
Residents in Washington reported witnessing the terrifying collision. Witness Ari Schulman described seeing “a stream of sparks” followed by an intense fireball.
“Initially, the plane looked fine and normal, right about to head over land,” Schulman told CNN. “Seconds later, it banked sharply, glowing bright yellow with sparks trailing beneath it. It was like a Roman candle in the sky.”
Washington DC Emergency Response and Investigation
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) immediately grounded all flights at Washington Reagan National Airport. It coordinated with multiple agencies for rescue efforts. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem deployed US Coast Guard resources to assist in the operation. These efforts faced challenges due to freezing temperatures and darkness.
Fireboats and dozens of fire trucks were dispatched to the scene. Divers plunged into the frigid river, searching for survivors and victims.
President Donald Trump extended his condolences and called for a thorough investigation. However, he criticized the air traffic control system.
“It was a clear night, and the lights on the plane were blazing,” Trump stated on Truth Social. “Why didn’t the helicopter maneuver or get directions from the control tower?
Previous Crashes in Washington and Safety Concerns
The crash has raised serious concerns. Experts question how a passenger plane equipped with modern collision-avoidance technology could collide with a military aircraft near a major airport. An in-depth investigation is anticipated.
Washington’s airspace is often busy, with numerous planes and helicopters operating simultaneously. Reagan National Airport was also the site of a deadly crash in January 1982. Air Florida Flight 90 plunged into the Potomac River after takeoff, killing 78 people.
The last major fatal airline crash in the US occurred in 2009. Continental Flight 3407 crashed near Buffalo, New York, killing 49 people.
American Airlines’ CEO issued a public statement expressing sorrow. He pledged full cooperation with investigators. The tragic collision underscores the importance of stringent aviation safety measures. This is especially critical near high-traffic airports like Reagan National.
