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A major search and rescue operation is underway after a midair collision between a passenger aircraft and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport in Washington, DC.
Officials have confirmed multiple fatalities, and emergency crews continue searching the freezing Potomac River for survivors.
The collision occurred late Wednesday night, sending both aircraft plunging into the river. More than 300 first responders, including divers and emergency personnel, are actively combing the area for possible survivors, DC Fire Chief John Donnelly said.
A law enforcement source revealed that the wreckage of the plane is in pieces, with the helicopter also submerged nearby. While fatalities have been confirmed, authorities have yet to locate any survivors.
The passenger plane, American Airlines Flight 5342, was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members when it departed Wichita, Kansas en route to Washington, DC. The US Army Black Hawk helicopter was conducting a training mission with three soldiers on board when the two aircraft collided.
As a result of the crash, Reagan National Airport (DCA) will remain closed until at least 11 a.m. ET Thursday, airport officials announced. The closure is expected to cause significant travel disruptions, with flights being rerouted to nearby airports.
Former President Donald Trump responded to the incident on Truth Social, calling it "a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented."
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the collision, which occurred in one of the nation’s busiest airspaces. Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are examining whether air traffic control, communication failures, or pilot error played a role in the crash.
The Pentagon has not issued an official statement regarding the Army helicopter involved in the incident. Officials are expected to provide further updates as the investigation continues.
This is a developing story. More details will be provided as they become available. (ILKHA)
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