WASHINGTON — A collision occurred between a commercial aircraft and a military helicopter in midair near Reagan Washington National Airport on Wednesday evening.
The involved aircraft, an American Eagle jet and an Army Black Hawk helicopter, have both landed in the Potomac River. The plane was carrying 64 passengers, while the helicopter had three personnel on board.
The incident took place just before 9 p.m. ET, and the extent of any injuries or fatalities remains uncertain as search-and-rescue efforts are currently in progress.
In a statement released Wednesday night, President Donald Trump indicated that he has received a complete briefing on the incident. He expressed gratitude towards first responders and mentioned that he will provide more details as they arise.
Reagan National Airport will remain closed until at least 11 a.m. on Thursday.
Details About the Plane
American Eagle Flight 5342 had 60 passengers and four crew members on board, flying from Wichita to Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia, just across the Washington border, as reported by American Airlines.
The accident occurred in proximity to the airport.
According to American Airlines, the company is in communication with the appropriate authorities and is aiding in response efforts, emphasizing concern for the safety of the passengers and crew onboard.
Details About the Helicopter
The Army has confirmed that the helicopter involved was a Black Hawk, which was operating out of Fort Belvoir, Virginia.
Initial reports suggest that there were three individuals aboard the helicopter, which was engaged in a training flight, according to an Army official.
Information on the Search for Survivors
Search-and-rescue teams have deployed to the Potomac River. NBC Washington has cited sources close to recovery efforts, indicating that the bodies of some individuals who perished in the crash have been recovered.
Authorities have yet to provide specific numbers regarding casualties.
Among the passengers on the American Eagle flight were several elite figure skaters from the United States and Russia returning from a competition in Wichita.
Russian state media reported that two world champion figure skaters were also passengers on the flight.
U.S. Figure Skating stated that the athletes were coming back from a training camp in Wichita, Kansas.
The Washington Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department, along with the Metropolitan Police Department, is leading a coordinated search-and-rescue operation, as indicated in their joint statement.
The FBI is also collaborating with local agencies in the ongoing search for survivors, according to a statement from the Washington field office.
In a joint statement released shortly before 10 p.m., local departments reported that there was no confirmed information on casualties at this time.
Firefighters are currently engaged in dive operations, as noted by Edward Kelly, the general president of the International Association of Fire Fighters, on social media platform X.
