A tragic midair collision near Washington, D.C. on Wednesday night between a regional American Airlines flight and a U.S. Army helicopter has resulted in the deaths of at least 28 people. The crash occurred as the plane, operated by PSA Airlines, was nearing its landing at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Authorities have deployed over 300 responders to the Potomac River, where wreckage from the two aircraft was found.
According to D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services Chief John Donnelly, recovery efforts have transitioned from rescue to recovery operations. “We do not believe there are any survivors,” he said during a briefing on Thursday. The crash site is located in one of the most heavily monitored airspaces in the United States, which includes the White House and the U.S. Capitol.
The regional jet, American Eagle flight 5342, was carrying 64 people, while the Army helicopter, a Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk, had a crew of three. The crash took place at around 9 p.m. ET on Wednesday, and air traffic control recordings show the tower had cleared the plane for landing on Runway 33 just moments before the collision. A controller had instructed the helicopter to pass behind the commercial jet. Shortly after, a fireball was visible in the sky, signaling the impact.
Officials are still working to determine the cause of the crash, with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) leading the investigation. This marks the first major commercial aviation accident in the U.S. since the 2009 Colgan Air crash in Buffalo.
Flight 5342 had departed from Wichita, Kansas, and was descending toward the airport when it lost altitude rapidly over the Potomac River. A video of the incident, captured by an observation camera, circulated on social media, showing the two aircraft colliding before erupting into flames.
Among the victims aboard the plane were two former world champion figure skaters, Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, who had been returning from a training camp in Wichita. The U.S. Figure Skating organization confirmed that several athletes and coaches were on board.
Recovery efforts have been hindered by rough weather conditions, including strong winds and frigid water temperatures. Divers are working in dark, murky waters, and debris has scattered across the river, complicating the operation.
Officials have pledged full support for the victims’ families, with American Airlines and local authorities providing assistance. “We are deeply saddened by this unspeakable tragedy,” said a statement from the airline. Family assistance centers have been set up in Washington, D.C., and Wichita to support those affected.
As the investigation continues, public officials, including President Joe Biden, have expressed their condolences, and prayers have poured in for the victims. Authorities have assured the public that they are doing everything possible to uncover the cause of the crash and support the grieving families.
