Synopsis
A tragic mid-air collision occurred over the Potomac River near Washington, involving American Airlines Flight 5342 and a Black Hawk helicopter. Emergency operations are in progress as authorities investigate the incident.Key Takeaways
- A mid-air collision occurred near Washington.
- American Airlines Flight 5342 was involved.
- Emergency teams responded promptly.
- All flights at DCA were temporarily halted.
- Investigation by FAA and NTSB is underway.
New Delhi, Jan 30 (NationPress) A devastating mid-air incident transpired over the Potomac River adjacent to Washington, US, involving American Airlines Flight 5342 and a Black Hawk helicopter.
The passenger aircraft was reported to be carrying 60 individuals, including passengers and crew, as per various media sources.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) indicated that the collision took place at approximately 9 p.m. on Wednesday while the passenger aircraft was nearing Runway 33 at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
"A PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet collided in mid-air with a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter while on approach to Runway 33 at Reagan Washington National Airport around 9 p.m. local time. PSA was operating as Flight 5342 for American Airlines. The flight departed from Wichita, Kansas. The FAA and NTSB will conduct an investigation, with the NTSB taking the lead," stated the FAA.
The flight had its origin in Wichita, Kansas.
Emergency response units, including the Metropolitan Police Department and the District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department, promptly commenced search and rescue operations in the Potomac River. Rescue boats were dispatched to the site of the crash to assist any possible survivors.
As a safety measure, all flights at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport were temporarily halted to support the emergency response efforts. The FAA has initiated an extensive investigation into the incident to ascertain the cause of the collision.
"All takeoffs and landings have been paused at DCA. Emergency personnel are attending to an aircraft incident on the airfield. The terminal remains operational. Updates will follow," Reagan Airport announced on X.
Kansas Senator Jerry Moran expressed alarm upon learning that the passenger aircraft was arriving from Kansas.
"I am saddened to hear that a plane from Kansas was involved in a crash at DCA. I am in touch with authorities. Please join me in praying for all affected," he shared in a post on X.
Authorities are advising the public to steer clear of the area to enable emergency responders to carry out their duties efficiently.
This incident has elicited a substantial response from various agencies as they collaborate to manage the situation and provide necessary assistance.
Rescue operations are ongoing, with more details anticipated.
