In Washington D.C., a catastrophic mid-air collision between a passenger jet and a U.S. Army helicopter has resulted in a tragic crash into the Potomac River, claiming the lives of at least 18 people. The accident happened around 9 PM local time during the jet's approach to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, sparking immediate rescue efforts in freezing waters.
The PSA Airlines jet, operating as American Airlines 5342, was carrying 64 people and departed from Wichita, Kansas. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the other aircraft involved in the incident was a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter from Fort Belvoir, Virginia, which was reportedly on a training mission with three soldiers aboard.
Eyewitnesses have described alarming scenes, including sparks trailing from the jet just before the crash. Authorities, comprising around 300 responders, have been grappling with challenges such as poor visibility, ice, and treacherous conditions while conducting search and rescue missions.
President Donald Trump expressed condolences and concerns over the tragic event, while American Airlines CEO Robert Isom extended his heartfelt sorrow on behalf of the airline. Investigations by the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are underway as the community mourns the loss of life, with several victims linked to the U.S. Figure Skating community. The tragedy has prompted discussions about flight safety protocols in the area.
The PSA Airlines jet, operating as American Airlines 5342, was carrying 64 people and departed from Wichita, Kansas. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the other aircraft involved in the incident was a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter from Fort Belvoir, Virginia, which was reportedly on a training mission with three soldiers aboard.
Eyewitnesses have described alarming scenes, including sparks trailing from the jet just before the crash. Authorities, comprising around 300 responders, have been grappling with challenges such as poor visibility, ice, and treacherous conditions while conducting search and rescue missions.
President Donald Trump expressed condolences and concerns over the tragic event, while American Airlines CEO Robert Isom extended his heartfelt sorrow on behalf of the airline. Investigations by the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are underway as the community mourns the loss of life, with several victims linked to the U.S. Figure Skating community. The tragedy has prompted discussions about flight safety protocols in the area.
