Images have shown the plane splitting into two pieces. (Image: AP)
Devastating images of American Airlines 5342 detail how the plane tragically split into two pieces and is now seven feet underwater.
The passenger jet carrying 64 people collided with a military helicopter and plunged into the Potomac River Wednesday night, splitting the aircraft in two approximately seven feet below the water’s surface, officials said. So far, 19 bodies have been pulled from the river, officials reported at 8:50 PST, according to reports.
American Airlines Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, collided with a US Army Black Hawk helicopter at approximately 9 p.m.
EST while approaching Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, according to Federal Aviation Administration officials. The CRJ700 regional jet had departed from Wichita, Kansas.
Three military personnel were aboard the Black Hawk helicopter when the collision occurred. At least four survivors have been rescued from the river, according to NBC4, though their conditions were not immediately known.
Emergency boats rushed to the crash scene. (Image: AP)
A passenger’s husband on the flight told WUSA: “I’m just praying that someone is pulling her out of the river right now as we speak. I’m just praying to God.”
Multiple agencies have launched massive search and rescue operations, with fireboats from DC Fire and EMS working alongside helicopters from US Park Police, DC Metropolitan Police Department, and the US military.
All flight operations at Reagan National have been suspended indefinitely.
The cause of the collision remains under investigation.
Emergency crews responded to the crash looking for survivors. (Image: Getty)
The National Transportation Safety Board is expected to arrive on scene shortly to begin their inquiry into one of the worst aviation disasters in the capital region’s history.
US President , he stated: “I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident which just took place at Reagan National Airport.”
“May God Bless their souls. Thank you for the incredible work being done by our first responders. I am monitoring the situation and will provide more details as they arise.”