Hundreds of first responders are searching for survivors after a midair collision between a passenger plane and a U.S. Army helicopter near Reagan National Airport on Wednesday. The crash occurred over the Potomac River, prompting an extensive search-and-rescue operation that authorities expect to take several days.
Law enforcement officials have confirmed fatalities, though the exact number remains undisclosed. No survivors have been recovered so far.
Details of the Crash
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) identified the passenger aircraft as American Airlines Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines. It was en route from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, DC, when it collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter while approaching the runway.
According to flight records, the plane was scheduled to land around 9 p.m. DC Police received reports of an “aircraft crash above the Potomac River” at 8:53 p.m. Officials stated the Black Hawk was on a training flight at the time.
Following the incident, all flights at Reagan National Airport were suspended until 11 a.m. Thursday. Video footage captured the collision, showing a fiery explosion.
Eyewitness Accounts
Ari Schulman, who witnessed the crash, recalled seeing the plane flying normally before it suddenly banked sharply. He described its underside glowing yellow with sparks trailing behind before everything went dark.
Air traffic control audio obtained by CNN revealed communication between controllers and the helicopter pilot moments before the crash. Controllers instructed the helicopter to pass behind the plane, with the pilot confirming visual contact. Thirteen seconds later, shocked reactions were heard from the control tower as the collision occurred.
Passengers and Crew
American Airlines confirmed that the plane carried 60 passengers and four crew members. The Army helicopter had three crew members but was not transporting any VIPs. Officials have not confirmed casualties publicly.
A support center has been set up at the airport for families of those on board. Some passengers were part of the U.S. figure skating community, including two Russian skaters, as reported by Russian state media.
Kansas Senator Jerry Moran called the crash a “personal tragedy” for many in Kansas, given the flight’s origin.
Rescue Operations
Approximately 300 first responders are conducting search efforts in the frigid, murky waters of the Potomac River. The river’s temperature, around 35°F, poses a significant risk of hypothermia. Experts warn that in such conditions, individuals can lose dexterity within minutes and may become unconscious within 15 to 30 minutes.
Authorities described the operation as highly complex due to darkness, strong currents, and floating ice. Search efforts are expected to continue for several days.
Government Response
Former President Donald Trump stated he was monitoring the situation, calling it a “terrible accident” and praising first responders. On Truth Social, he remarked that the crash “looked like it should have been prevented,” though he did not elaborate.
Vice President JD Vance also expressed concern, asking for prayers for those involved.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the collision as recovery efforts persist.
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