A search and rescue operation is underway after an American Airlines passenger flight and a Black Hawk helicopter collided near Ronald Reagan National Airport just outside of Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, Jan 29.
Washington D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services confirmed to CNN that the passenger flight crashed into the Potomac River after colliding with the helicopter. The commercial plane was identified as Flight 5342, a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet operating for American Airlines. It was traveling from Wichita, Kansas.
The commercial plane carried 64 people, while the Black Hawk helicopter, a Sikorsky H-60, carried three soldiers. A defense official also told CNN that no VIPs were on the military aircraft.
American Airlines released a statement to the New York Post after the news broke about the crash. “Our concern is for the passengers and crew on board the aircraft,” the statement reads. “We are in contact with authorities and assisting with emergency response efforts.”
Ronald Reagon National Airport also announced that all takeoffs and landings have been halted. “Emergency personnel are responding to an aircraft incident on the airfield,” airport officials stated. “The terminal remains open.”
The airport eventually closed as multiple agencies responded to the accident.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that President Donald Trump is aware of the situation and is staying up-to-date on the search efforts.
