13 hours ago
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A midair collision between a passenger jet and an Army helicopter has grounded flights in Washington, D.C. According to the Associated Press, the crash happened at around 9 p.m. local time and involved an American Eagle flight arriving at Ronald Reagan National Airport from Witchita, Kansas.
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Details About The AA Jet & Army Helicopter Collision
Note that this is breaking news, and an investigation is underway. At this time, the Federal Aviation Administration has halted all takeoffs and landings from the D.C. airport. Information about the incident is still developing, but CNN reports the Metro PD has not confirmed any casualties.
The passenger jet and Blackhawk helicopter collided over the Potomac River. According to the AP, emergency rescue officials are launching inflatable rescue boats into the river from near the airport along the George Washington Parkway. CNN also shared that Maryland Governor Wes Moore confirmed that the Maryland State Police had sent divers into the river at the crash site.
According to the AP, there is audio from the air traffic control tower that warns the military helicopter about the passenger jet. “PAT25, do you have the CRJ in sight?” the controller reportedly asked the helicopter. Soon after the collision, the tower reportedly started redirecting air traffic before the FAA grounded all flights. An observation camera video from the Kennedy Center reportedly shows a fireball in the sky at the moment the jet and helicopter collided.
American Airlines Reacts To Collision Reports
Amid the breaking news, American Airlines first addressed the incident at the Ronald Reagan National Airport via X. They confirmed knowing about the collision and announced plans to share information “as it became available.” In a follow-up press release, AA revealed that the American Eagle flight (5342) had 60 passengers and four crew members on board. They provided contact information for folks seeking information about loved ones who were on the jet.
“Our concern is for the passengers and crew on board the aircraft. We are in contact with authorities and assisting with emergency response efforts.If you believe you may have loved ones on board Flight 5342, call American Airlines toll-free at 800-679-8215. Those calling from outside the U.S. can visit news.aa.com for additional phone numbers. Family members in Canada, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands can call 800-679-8215 directly.”
President Donald Trump is reportedly “fully briefed” on the jet and helicopter collision and said he’s monitoring the situation. Unfortunately, this isn’t the first time that a passenger jet has ended up in the Potomac River. In January 1982, 78 people died after an Air Florida flight crashed due to bad weather.
This breaking story is being updated live. Please refresh for updates.
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