Rescue operations are intensifying as search crews continue working in the Potomac River following a tragic mid-air collision between a commercial plane and a military helicopter. The collision, which occurred near Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., has left many dead and several missing as recovery efforts progress.
Details of the Collision
Onboard the aircraft were 60 passengers and 4 crew members when it collided midair with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter. The helicopter had a crew of three and was conducting a routine training flight from Fort Belvoir, Virginia. The accident happened while the commercial flight, American Eagle flight 5342, was on its final approach to Reagan National Airport.
The plane had originally departed from Wichita, Kansas, and was set to land in D.C. when the crash occurred at approximately 6:45 p.m. ET.
Rescue and Recovery Efforts in the Potomac River
As of 11:30 p.m. ET, search and rescue teams had recovered 18 bodies from the Potomac River, according to CBS News. The river has proven to be a challenging search area due to strong currents and cold winter weather, further complicating the mission.
Divers and emergency responders from local law enforcement and the Coast Guard are working tirelessly, using boats, helicopters, and searchlights to locate survivors and retrieve debris. Officials fear the death toll could rise as search operations continue through the night.
What We Know About the Army Helicopter
The Black Hawk helicopter involved in the collision was a UH-60 model, commonly used for training and transportation missions by the U.S. military. Officials at Fort Belvoir confirmed that the helicopter was on a routine flight when the incident occurred.
The three soldiers aboard the helicopter were part of a training exercise. Although their identities have not been released, military authorities have stated that they are coordinating closely with search teams.
Possible Causes Under Investigation
The cause of the crash is under investigation by both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and military officials. Preliminary inquiries suggest potential miscommunication or technical malfunction could be factors.
The airspace near Reagan National Airport is heavily monitored, and experts will closely examine flight records, air traffic control communications, and the black boxes from both aircraft.
Family and Official Reactions
Family members of the passengers have gathered at Reagan National Airport, anxiously awaiting updates. The airline has provided counseling and emotional support for relatives during this difficult time.
Local and national leaders, including the President, have expressed condolences to the families of the victims. Officials have assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted to uncover the cause of the crash and prevent future incidents.
Flight Operations and Impact on Air Travel
Air traffic at Reagan National Airport has been disrupted, with several flights canceled or diverted. Authorities have issued a temporary no-fly zone over the crash site until further notice. The FAA is expected to implement stricter flight safety measures following this incident.
The mid-air collision near Washington, D.C., is a tragic event that highlights the potential dangers of congested airspace near major airports.
As rescue efforts continue, authorities are committed to uncovering the cause of the crash and providing closure to the families of the victims. The nation mourns this loss as investigations move forward to ensure aviation safety improvements.