Emergency services flooded the scene (Image: AP)
A Blackhawk military helicopter and an American Airlines passenger plane have collided in the skies above a key tonight and it is feared multiple people have died. It has seen the immediate shutdown of all runways and the suspension of all flights at the DCA Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport near the US capital.
The Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) has confirmed the mid-air collision involving American Airlines Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, and a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter during its approach to Reagan National. An Army official has now verified that one of their was involved in the horrific crash.
While the extent of casualties remains uncertain at present, Ted Cruz expressed his deep concern, stating: “While we don’t yet know how many on board were lost, we know there are fatalities.”
At least 60 people are believed to have been on board the passenger jet involved in the collision (Image: @X)
NBC has reported that around 60 passengers and four crew members were aboard the American Airlines with rescuers pulling at least four survivors from the chilly waters of the Potomac River so far. Reports indicate that three soldiers were traveling on the doomed Blackhawk
US President has received comprehensive briefings on the unfolding situation, while the FBI has informed the press that no signs of criminal activity or terrorism have been detected in relation to the catastrophe, reports Witnesses and a webcam positioned at the Kennedy Center recorded the shocking moment of impact, capturing an explosion in the sky over the Potomac River.
The airport issued a statement saying, “All takeoffs and landings have been halted at DCA. Emergency personnel are responding to an aircraft incident on the airfield. The terminal remains open. Will update.”
Emergency services have raced to the scene (Image: Fox 5)
The FAA released a statement which read: “A PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet collided in midair with a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter while on approach to Runway 33 at Reagan Washington National Airport around 9pm local time. PSA was operating Flight 5342 for American Airlines. It departed from Wichita, Kansas.
“The FAA and NTSB will investigate. The NTSB will lead the investigation. Will provide updates as information comes in.”
Known for including iconic models like the Blackhawk and Seahawk, Sikorsky H-60s belong to a long line of military helicopters manufactured by Sikorsky Aircraft. The collision between a military helicopter and a regional jet close to DCA airport has been acknowledged by US President ‘s press secretary, assuring that he is informed and keeping an eye on developments.
A view of emergency response looking from Arlington, Virginia (Image: AP)
American Airlines released a statement saying: “We’re aware of reports that American Eagle flight 5342, operated by PSA, with service from Wichita, Kansas (ICT) to Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA) has been involved in an incident. We will provide information as it becomes available.”
She addressed the media, stating: “I can just say that the thoughts and the prayers of the entire Trump administration are with all those that are involved.”
Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance took to Twitter advising: “Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan airport this evening. We’re monitoring the situation, but for now let’s hope for the best.”
Indicating a grim outcome, US Senator Ted Cruz seemed to confirm that there have been fatalities resulting from the catastrophic incident. Senator Ted Cruz took to Twitter, stating: “I am closely monitoring the situation at DCA, and I will receive a briefing from the FAA tomorrow. While we don’t yet know how many on board were lost, we know there are fatalities. Please join Heidi and me in praying for all involved as the search and rescue is underway.”
People look on as emergency services rush to the site of the collision (Image: AP)
Authorities confirmed that at least one aircraft had crashed into the Potomac River, prompting a massive emergency response. The DC Police Department announced: “MPD is responding to an apparent air crash in the Potomac River. Multiple agencies are responding.”
The police department clarified that their helicopter was not involved in the incident and was instead assisting in the multi-agency response. A rescue operation was underway, with inflatable rescue boats being launched into the river near the airport.
Reports indicated that victims had been found by a rescue boat. The DC Fire Department ignited social media with an alarming tweet, revealing that a collision had taken place around 9pm local time, with a small aircraft plunging into the water.
Authorities raced to the site as fireboats and a host of agencies, including the Metropolitan Police Department, swooped in to tackle the emergency. The DC Fire and EMS didn’t hesitate to confirm: “Confirmed small aircraft down in Potomac River vicinity Reagan National Airport. Fireboats on scene.”
US Senator Jerry Moran took to Twitter to express his concern, announcing: “Learning that a plane inbound from Kansas was involved in a crash at DCA. I am in contact with authorities. Please join me in praying for all involved.”
As the news spread, multiple helicopters from various departments, including US Park Police, DC Metropolitan Police, and US military, hovered ominously over the Potomac River, where the incident unfolded.
According to footage secured by an observation camera situated at the Kennedy Center nearby, two sets of lights, suggestive of aircraft, were seen merging into a fireball. Amidst the chaos, the airport released a statement affirming that emergency teams were hastily responding to “an aircraft incident on the airfield.”
Onlookers have described the plane being visibly split in two, while lying in the river.