A large-scale search and rescue operation is underway after a devastating mid-air collision between an American Airlines passenger jet and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport on Wednesday night.
The crash involved American Airlines Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, which was carrying 64 passengers from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, DC. The Black Hawk helicopter, with three soldiers on board, was conducting a training flight when the accident occurred.
According to officials, the crash took place as Flight 5342 was preparing to land at Reagan National Airport. Video footage of the incident shows a massive fireball erupting upon impact, sending both aircraft plummeting into the Potomac River.
Audio recordings between the Black Hawk’s crew and air traffic control indicate that communications were relayed just seconds before the crash. Authorities are now working to determine the exact sequence of events leading to the disaster.
Officials have confirmed multiple fatalities, though the exact number of victims has not been disclosed. No survivors have been found as search teams battle cold, windy, and challenging conditions on the river.
“The passenger jet is in pieces in the water, with the helicopter nearby,” a law enforcement source said. Divers and emergency responders continue to search the wreckage for possible survivors.
In response to the crash, Reagan National Airport has been shut down until at least 11:00 a.m. ET Thursday. The airport has become a gathering point for family members of the victims, who are receiving updates from officials.
Figure Skating Community Mourns
Adding to the tragedy, it has been confirmed that several members of the figure skating community were among the passengers on Flight 5342. According to US Figure Skating, two world-champion Russian figure skaters were on board, as reported by Russian state news agency TASS.
A vigil in Wichita has been planned for noon CT, where the skating community and local residents will come together to honor the victims.
President Trump Reacts
United States President Donald Trump addressed the crash in a social media post, calling it a “bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented.” It remains unclear whether his comments were based on an official briefing or personal speculation.