A midair collision involving a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet and a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter occurred on Thursday evening near Washington D.C.’s Reagan National Airport. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the incident took place around 9 p.m. local time as the PSA-operated American Airlines Flight 5342, departing from Wichita, Kansas, was approaching runway 22.
The aircraft crashed into the Potomac River, close to the airport, officials confirmed. Fireboats have been dispatched to the scene as emergency teams work to manage the situation, according to the D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services. Details surrounding the crash, including the number of people on board and the cause of the collision, have not yet been disclosed. Rescue and recovery operations are ongoing.
The D.C. Fire Department confirmed the incident, posting on X (formerly Twitter), “Confirmed small aircraft down in Potomac River vicinity Reagan National Airport. Fireboats on scene.”
In response to the crash, Reagan Airport officials announced that all takeoffs and landings have been suspended at the airport, though the terminal remains open. Emergency personnel are actively responding to the situation.
Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris, urged citizens to pray for those involved in the incident. “Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan Airport this evening. We’re monitoring the situation, but for now let’s hope for the best,” she said.
Senator Ted Cruz also addressed the tragedy, acknowledging that fatalities were confirmed, though the exact number remains unknown. “I am closely monitoring the situation at DCA, and I will receive a briefing from the FAA tomorrow. While we don’t yet know how many on board were lost, we know there are fatalities. Please join Heidi and me in praying for all involved as the search and rescue is underway,” Cruz wrote on X.
U.S. law enforcement officials have stated that more information will be provided once the cause of the crash is determined.
