Plane Crashes Near Reagan National Airport After Colliding with Military Helicopter, Officials Say
Incident Overview
A jet carrying 60 passengers and four crew members collided with an Army helicopter while landing at Ronald Reagan National Airport near Washington, prompting a large search-and-rescue operation in the nearby Potomac River. There were multiple fatalities, according to a person familiar with the matter, but the precise number of victims was unclear as rescue crews hunted for any survivors.
Collision Details
The incident occurred around 9 p.m. when American Eagle Flight 5342, a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet, collided with a U.S. Army Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk helicopter while on approach to Runway 33 at Reagan Washington National Airport. The helicopter was participating in a training flight at the time of the collision.
Investigation and Response
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will investigate the incident, with the NTSB leading the investigation. The FBI has also been called in to assist with the investigation, with the Washington Field Office responding to the site. The airport was closed until 5 a.m. Friday, and all takeoffs and landings were halted while helicopters from law enforcement agencies across the region flew over the scene.
Search and Rescue Efforts
Rescue crews launched inflatable rescue boats into the Potomac River from a point along the George Washington Parkway, just north of the airport, and set up light towers from the shore to illuminate the area near the collision site. At least a half-dozen boats are scanning the water using search lights.
President’s Response
President Donald Trump has been briefed on the incident and tweeted, "We’re aware of reports that American Eagle flight 5342, operated by PSA, with service from Wichita, Kansas (ICT) to Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA) has been involved in an incident. We will provide information as it becomes available."
Conclusion
The collision between the plane and the military helicopter is a tragic incident that has resulted in multiple fatalities. The investigation is ongoing, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happened during the collision?
- The American Eagle Flight 5342, a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet, collided with a U.S. Army Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk helicopter while on approach to Runway 33 at Reagan Washington National Airport.
- How many people were on board the plane and helicopter?
- The plane had 60 passengers and four crew members, while the helicopter had three people on board.
- What is the current status of the investigation?
- The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the incident, with the NTSB leading the investigation. The FBI has also been called in to assist with the investigation.
- Are there any updates on the number of fatalities?
- There were multiple fatalities, but the precise number of victims is unclear as rescue crews continue to search for any survivors.
