Plane Crash
On the evening of January 29, 2025, a tragic mid-air collision occurred over Washington, D.C., involving an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter. The incident took place around 9 p.m. local time as both aircraft were approaching Runway 33 at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).
Details of the Aircraft Involved
The commercial aircraft, operating as American Eagle Flight 5342, was a Bombardier CRJ700 en route from Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport in Kansas to DCA. Operated by PSA Airlines, the flight carried 60 passengers and four crew members. The military helicopter involved was a Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk from the U.S. Army, with three soldiers on board.
Circumstances of the Collision
Preliminary reports indicate that the collision occurred over the Potomac River during the final approach to the airport. Following the impact, both aircraft descended into the river, prompting an immediate response from emergency services. Fireboats and rescue teams were dispatched to the scene to search for survivors.
Immediate Aftermath
In the wake of the accident, all takeoffs and landings at Reagan National Airport were suspended to facilitate rescue operations and ensure safety. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have initiated a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of the collision.
Official Responses
President Donald Trump has been briefed on the situation and expressed his condolences to the families affected by the tragedy. He also commended the swift actions of the first responders. The FBI has stated that there is no evidence suggesting terrorism was involved in the incident.
Historical Context
This event marks a significant tragedy in the history of aviation incidents in the Washington, D.C. area. The last major accident occurred in 1982 when Air Florida Flight 90 crashed into the 14th Street Bridge and plunged into the Potomac River shortly after takeoff from National Airport.
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation is in its early stages, authorities have not yet released information regarding potential causes or contributing factors to the collision. The aviation community and the public await further details as officials work diligently to uncover the circumstances that led to this devastating event.
