Washington, D.C. – January 29, 2025
A devastating mid-air collision shook the skies over Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night when an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter crashed into the frigid Potomac River. The tragedy, which unfolded near Reagan National Airport around 9 p.m., has halted airport operations and launched a massive emergency response.
American Eagle Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines for American Airlines, was on its final approach to Runway 33 when it struck a Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk on a routine training mission. The jet, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, was arriving from Wichita, Kansas. The helicopter had three soldiers on board.
The collision, which occurred three miles from the White House, has left investigators scrambling for answers. Preliminary data suggests the aircraft was at 400 feet altitude and traveling 140 mph when it suddenly plummeted into the river. More than 300 first responders from DC Fire and EMS, Maryland State Police, and the U.S. Coast Guard rushed to the scene. As chilling 36-degree waters complicated rescue efforts, the grim reality set in—there are no confirmed survivors. Multiple bodies have already been recovered from the wreckage.
President Donald Trump described the incident as a “terrible accident” and raised concerns about why it was not prevented. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy are closely monitoring the situation. Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson and Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin have expressed their condolences to the families of the victims.
American Airlines has activated a helpline for families of those on board, as the nation grapples with its deadliest commercial aviation disaster since 2009. The crash brings painful reminders of the 1982 Air Florida disaster when Flight 90 plunged into the same river after takeoff from National Airport. Once again, the nation watches in sorrow as Washington mourns another tragedy in its skies.
As investigators work to understand the moments leading up to the impact, the emphasis is on determining how this event occurred and how to prevent such tragedies in the future. “We extend our deepest condolences to the victims, their families, and all those affected by this unimaginable tragedy, and we pray for strength and comfort during this difficult time.”