Synopsis
A tragic mid-air collision involving American Airlines Flight 5342 and a military helicopter over the Potomac River near Washington's Reagan National Airport has resulted in at least 18 fatalities, with ongoing efforts to locate survivors.Key Takeaways
- Mid-air collision resulted in 18 fatalities.
- American Airlines Flight 5342 involved.
- Investigation led by NTSB.
- Emergency response teams deployed.
- Public advised to avoid the area.
Washington, Jan 30 (NationPress) A devastating mid-air collision above the Potomac River close to Washington's Reagan National Airport has resulted in the loss of at least 18 lives, as rescue teams persist in their search for survivors, according to local media sources.
The incident involved American Airlines Flight 5342 and a Black Hawk military helicopter.
The military helicopter was transporting three soldiers when it collided with the regional passenger jet, which had 60 passengers and four crew members on board, approaching the airport for landing.
No survivors have been located thus far, as reported by CNN.
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the collision took place around 9 p.m. local time on Wednesday.
Consequently, all takeoffs and landings at the airport were temporarily suspended while emergency teams responded to the crash site.
The Pentagon and the Army are conducting an investigation into the incident, stated Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
He mentioned that the investigation was "initiated immediately."
"It’s absolutely tragic. Search and rescue efforts are still ongoing. Our prayers go out to all affected, and their families," Hegseth added.
President Donald Trump released a statement expressing his sorrow regarding the tragic event.
“I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident that occurred at Reagan National Airport. May God bless their souls. I appreciate the extraordinary efforts being carried out by our first responders. I am keeping a close watch on the situation and will share more details as they become available,” the statement indicated.
Meanwhile, Texas Senator Ted Cruz acknowledged the crash has resulted in multiple fatalities.
“I am closely observing the situation at DCA and will receive a briefing from the FAA tomorrow. While we don't yet know how many individuals on board were lost, we are aware that there are fatalities. Please join Heidi and me in praying for everyone involved as the search and rescue efforts are ongoing,” he posted on X.
The FAA confirmed that a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet, operating as Flight 5342 for American Airlines, was on approach to Runway 33 when it collided midair with a Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk helicopter. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will oversee the investigation into the cause of the accident.
Emergency response teams, including the Metropolitan Police Department and the District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department, were promptly deployed to carry out search and rescue operations. Boats are actively scouring the Potomac River in search of potential survivors.
In light of the crash, Reagan National Airport issued an update on X: “All takeoffs and landings have been suspended at DCA. Emergency teams are responding to an aircraft incident on the airfield. The terminal remains open. Further updates will follow.”
Kansas Senator Jerry Moran also responded to the incident, noting that the passenger plane had originated from Wichita, Kansas. “Learning that a plane inbound from Kansas was involved in a crash at DCA. I am in contact with authorities. Please join me in praying for those affected,” he posted on X.
Authorities have advised the public to stay clear of the area to enable emergency personnel to perform their duties effectively. Multiple agencies are collaborating in a coordinated effort to manage the crisis and provide necessary assistance.
Rescue operations are ongoing, and additional updates are anticipated.
