Midair Collision Leads to Tragic Crash
A regional jet, American Airlines Flight 5342, crashed into the Potomac River near Washington, D.C.’s Reagan National Airport after colliding midair with a military Black Hawk helicopter. The incident occurred around 9 p.m. on Wednesday, as the plane was preparing to land. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the collision took place while the plane was approaching Runway 33.
The flight, operated by PSA Airlines for American Airlines, had departed from Wichita, Kansas, earlier in the evening, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. The military Black Hawk helicopter, identified as a Sikorsky H-60, was conducting a routine training flight with three Army soldiers onboard. According to the FAA, the plane was about 400 feet above the ground and traveling at 140 miles per hour when it lost altitude rapidly over the river.
Witnesses reported that the military helicopter was found upside down in the water, while the PSA Airlines plane was shattered into pieces. While the exact number of casualties remains unclear, multiple fatalities were confirmed. Rescue operations continued throughout the night, with authorities working in the cold and murky waters of the Potomac River.
Search and Rescue Operations Underway
Following the crash, a significant number of first responders were dispatched to the scene. Divers and emergency personnel from across the region, including Fairfax and Montgomery counties, assisted in the search for survivors. D.C. Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly confirmed that over 300 responders were involved in the operation, which faced challenging conditions, including freezing temperatures of around 35 degrees.
The National Weather Service issued cold water warnings, cautioning against the dangers of sudden immersion in such temperatures. The waters of the Potomac, where the crash occurred, were reported to be about 8 feet deep, adding to the complexity of the rescue efforts. Multiple areas along the river were being searched, with some reports indicating that authorities were focusing on locations where boats could enter the water.
As of Thursday morning, Reagan National Airport remained closed, with flights diverted to Dulles International Airport. The search and recovery operation was expected to continue for several hours.
Officials Express Condolences and Support for Victims’ Families
In response to the incident, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser expressed her condolences for the families affected by the crash, stating that the city’s 700,000 residents were deeply saddened. American Airlines also acknowledged the tragic event and confirmed that their team was working closely with authorities to gather more information.
Regional officials, including Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, offered support for the rescue operations and confirmed that their respective emergency teams were actively involved. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly also stated that she was in contact with authorities and would provide updates as more information became available.
In a statement, U.S. Figure Skating confirmed that several members of their community, including athletes and coaches, were on board the plane. The group had been returning from a national training camp in Wichita.
The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the collision, with the NTSB leading the probe. The NTSB has sent a “go-team” to the site to begin its investigation into the cause of the crash.
American Airlines has set up a helpline for anyone with concerns about loved ones aboard the flight, urging them to call 1-800-679-8215 for assistance.
