18 dead in American Airlines, Army helicopter crash near DC.
18 dead in American Airlines, Army helicopter crash near DC.

Summary

NEW DELHI: A devastating midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport has claimed at least 18 lives. On Wednesday night, a regional jet of American…

NEW DELHI: A devastating midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport has claimed at least 18 lives. On Wednesday night, a regional jet of American Airlines collided with a US Army Black Hawk helicopter, triggering a major rescue operation.

 

The accident involved the PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jetliner, operating as American Airlines Flight 5342. The jet was approaching the airport after departing from Wichita, Kansas when it struck a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter. The incident occurred over the Potomac River, which borders the airport, and led to the tragic loss of life.

 

At least 18 bodies have been recovered so far, according to CBS News. The American Airlines jet was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, while the Black Hawk helicopter was a military aircraft.

 

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American Airlines confirmed the incident in a statement on social media, expressing concern for the passengers and crew on board. “Our concern is for the passengers and crew on board the aircraft,” the airline said. “We are in contact with authorities and assisting with emergency response efforts.”

 

Following the crash, authorities launched a search and rescue operation in the Potomac River, where wreckage from both aircraft was found. In response to the emergency, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport temporarily suspended all takeoffs and landings.

 

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The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has initiated an investigation into the collision and is working to determine its cause. While no fatal US passenger plane crashes have occurred since February 2009, recent near-misses have raised serious concerns about aviation safety.

 

In response to the tragedy, US President Donald Trump expressed his condolences and praised the work of first responders. “I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident. May God bless their souls,” Trump said.