Rescue operations are underway following a catastrophic collision involving an American Airlines flight and a military helicopter, now resting in the Potomac River, amid fears for the safety of all onboard.
Collision of Passenger Jet and Military Helicopter in DC Leaves Uncertain Fate of Survivors
Collision of Passenger Jet and Military Helicopter in DC Leaves Uncertain Fate of Survivors
Tragic aviation accident near Reagan National Airport raises serious concerns about air traffic safety.
In a harrowing incident last night, an American Airlines Bombardier CRJ700, en route to Washington DC from Wichita, Kansas, collided with a US Army Black Hawk helicopter while approaching Ronald Reagan National Airport. The impact sent the regional jet crashing into the Potomac River around 21:00 EST (02:00 GMT), prompting swift rescue efforts from local authorities. The American Airlines flight carried 60 passengers and four crew members, while the helicopter had three soldiers on board, as confirmed by a defense official.
The large aircraft reportedly split apart upon impact, leading to urgent searches by boats and divers in the river, with hopes of finding survivors dwindling. Updates from the scene reveal that emergency personnel have halted all takeoffs and landings at the airport to focus on the ongoing rescue operations.
In a statement, US President Donald Trump acknowledged the tragedy, expressing gratitude for the first responders' swift action and indicating that he was monitoring the situation closely. The Federal Aviation Administration has launched an investigation into the accident, raising questions about potential air traffic control miscommunications or mechanical failures that could have led to this disaster.
As the nation grapples with the fallout from this event, families await news of their loved ones in what is becoming a deeply somber day for passengers and crew alike.
