A tragic collision occurred on Wednesday night at around 9 p.m. between an American Airlines regional jet and a Black Hawk helicopter near Washington, D.C's Reagan National Airport. The regional jet, identified as American Eagle Flight 5342 operated by PSA Airlines, was on a standard flight path when it collided with the helicopter, leading both aircraft to crash into the Potomac River.
The flight, which originated from Wichita, Kansas, included 60 passengers and four crew members. Among the passengers were American and Russian elite figure skaters, their coaches, and family members. The aircraft was mere moments from landing when the devastating collision took place.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the incident. American Airlines is actively cooperating with the NTSB and has activated its care team to aid in recovery efforts. In light of the collision, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy remarked on the situation.
"It is not standard to have aircraft collide. I'll be clear on that," said Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
He further noted that while collisions are not standard, the flight paths flown by both the military helicopter and the American Airlines jet were typical for Washington, D.C., airspace.
"But prior to the collision, the flight paths that were being flown from the military and from American, that was not unusual for what happens in the D.C. airspace." – Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed deep sorrow over the incident and emphasized the airline's commitment to supporting all affected parties.
"We're absolutely heartbroken for the family and loved ones of the passengers and crew members and also for those that were on the military aircraft. Our focus right now is doing everything that we can to support all of those involved and also the PSA Airlines team," said American Airlines CEO Robert Isom.
Isom assured that the airline is working closely with local, state, and federal authorities during these challenging times.
"I know that there are many questions at this early stage that I just won't be able to answer, but we'll provide additional information as it comes," stated American Airlines CEO Robert Isom.