Sangbad Voice 9, International Desk: A comprehensive search operation is currently in progress following a midair collision involving an American Airlines passenger jet with 64 individuals on board and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter carrying three soldiers near Reagan National Airport, just outside Washington, DC, according to officials. American Airlines Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, was en route from Wichita, Kansas, to Reagan National Airport on Wednesday evening.
Collision during landing approach: The incident took place as Flight 5342 was preparing to land. The Black Hawk helicopter was conducting a training flight at the time, as reported by an official to CNN. Footage of the event captured a significant fireball at the moment of impact, with both aircraft subsequently crashing into the Potomac River. Communications between the helicopter and air traffic control were recorded just seconds before the collision.
Confirmed fatalities amid ongoing rescue efforts: Authorities have confirmed deaths, and rescuers have not yet located any survivors in the river, according to a law enforcement source. The passenger jet is said to be fragmented in the water, with the helicopter located nearby. Officials have described the river conditions as cold, windy, and challenging. Airport closure: Reagan National Airport will remain closed until at least 11 a.m. ET on Thursday, officials announced.
A law enforcement source noted a “really somber mood” at the rescue site. Family members of potential victims have gathered in an airport lounge as officials work to provide updates. Another press conference from authorities is anticipated at 7:30 a.m. ET.
According to Russian state news agency TASS, two world-champion Russian figure skaters were among the passengers. A vigil is scheduled in Wichita for noon CT. President comments on the incident: President Donald Trump referred to the collision as “a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented.”A regional jet carry 60 passengers and four crew members collided with an Army helicopter in midair near Reagan Washington National Airport late Wednesday.
