A PSA Airlines-operated commercial flight for American Airlines collided with a military helicopter near Washington, D.C.’s Reagan National Airport on Wednesday night, causing both aircraft to crash into the Potomac River.
Authorities have confirmed that at least two bodies have been recovered from the water, with ongoing search efforts to locate additional victims. The crash involved an American Airlines regional jet, Flight 5342, and a Sikorsky H-60 Army Blackhawk helicopter, both of which went down near the airport. Emergency teams continue to work through the night in search of survivors or additional bodies, with reports indicating up to 64 people may have been involved in the incident.
According to CNN, the American Airlines flight, which was en route from Wichita, Kansas, had 60 passengers and four crew members on board. The helicopter, which was coming from Fort Belvoir, Virginia, carried three soldiers, a U.S. defense official confirmed.
President Joe Biden has expressed his condolences following the crash. “I’ve been briefed on the terrible accident at Reagan National Airport. My thoughts are with the victims, and I extend my deepest sympathies to their families. I want to thank the first responders for their incredible efforts, and we are monitoring the situation closely,” he said in a statement.
The crash occurred just off the runways at Reagan National Airport, and debris from the incident was scattered across the Potomac River. In response, airport officials halted all air traffic, including both takeoffs and landings, to manage the emergency situation.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the crash occurred around 9:00 p.m. local time when the PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet collided with the Army Blackhawk helicopter. Emergency personnel, including D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services, have been deployed to assist with recovery and search operations.
American Airlines has confirmed that Flight 5342 was involved in the crash and expressed its support for those affected by the tragedy. The airline said it is working closely with authorities and offering assistance to those impacted.
U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris also expressed her sympathy, urging citizens to pray for those involved in the collision. “Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan Airport. We’re monitoring the situation closely and hoping for the best,” she said.
Senator Ted Cruz shared an update, confirming that there were fatalities but did not specify how many. “I am closely monitoring the situation at DCA, and I’ll receive a briefing from the FAA tomorrow. While we don’t yet know the full extent of the loss, we know there are fatalities. Please join Heidi and me in praying for all those involved as search and rescue operations continue,” Cruz wrote on X.
Law enforcement officials indicated that further updates would be provided once the cause of the crash is determined.
