Edit Career Advice Tips

Tragic Mid-Air Collision: Passenger Jet and Military Helicopter Crash Near Washington, D.C.

A devastating aviation disaster struck Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night when an American Airlines regional jet collided mid-air with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, sending the passenger plane crashing into the Potomac River.

 

The Collision

At approximately 9:00 PM EST, American Airlines Flight 5342—a Bombardier CRJ700 carrying 60 passengers and four crew members—was on its final approach to Ronald Reagan National Airport when it collided with a U.S. Army Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk helicopter. The military aircraft, carrying three soldiers, had taken off from Fort Belvoir, Virginia just moments before impact.

 

Crash and Rescue Efforts

Following the mid-air collision, the passenger jet broke apart upon impact with the Potomac River. Emergency response teams, including divers and rescue boats, immediately launched a large-scale search operation for survivors. The status of those onboard remains uncertain, as rescue teams race against time in the frigid waters.

 

Airport Disruptions and Federal Investigation

All takeoffs and landings at Reagan National Airport have been suspended as emergency teams work at the crash site. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the collision.

 

Presidential Response

President Donald Trump addressed the nation, stating that he had been "fully briefed on the terrible accident." He expressed his gratitude to the first responders and assured the public that more updates will follow as officials gather further details.

 

This tragic accident marks one of the most severe mid-air collisions in recent U.S. aviation history. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances, hoping to prevent such disasters in the future.