ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — A devastating mid-air collision between an American Airlines jet and a U.S. Army helicopter near Ronald Reagan National Airport on Wednesday evening has resulted in the presumed deaths of all 64 people aboard both aircraft. The crash, occurring in clear weather conditions, has plunged the nation into mourning and triggered a full-scale investigation.
Recovery efforts are underway on the Potomac River, where the wreckage of both aircraft rests. Authorities have shifted from rescue to recovery, acknowledging the grim reality that there are no expected survivors. The impact of this tragedy is profound, particularly given the high-profile nature of the flight and the presence of prominent figures among the passengers.
American Airlines Flight 5342, arriving from Wichita, Kansas, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, including a group of U.S. and Russian figure skaters returning from a competition, collided with a U.S. Army UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter on a training mission with three soldiers aboard. The collision occurred as the jet was on its final approach to Reagan National, a short distance from the White House and the Capitol.
The news has reverberated across the country and internationally. Statements of condolence have poured in, with expressions of grief and support for the victims’ families. The figure skating community is particularly devastated by the loss of the athletes, coaches, and family members who were on board. Among them were Russian figure skaters Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, renowned champions and coaches.
The collision occurred in highly regulated airspace, raising questions about the circumstances leading to the crash. Investigators will meticulously examine flight data recorders, communication logs, and witness accounts to determine the cause. The focus will be on understanding how the two aircraft came into proximity and what factors may have contributed to the collision.
Data from the commercial jet’s transponder indicates a sudden loss of altitude near the river just before the crash. Air traffic control recordings reveal communication between controllers and both aircraft, including a clearance for the jet to land on a shorter runway and a query to the helicopter about visual contact with the approaching plane. Moments later, the collision occurred.
The investigation is being led by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), with support from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Department of Defense. Authorities have pledged a thorough and transparent inquiry to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
This disaster evokes memories of past aviation tragedies, including the 1982 Air Florida crash into the Potomac and the 2009 crash near Buffalo, New York. While each incident has its unique circumstances, they all underscore the inherent risks of aviation and the importance of ongoing efforts to improve safety.
The closure of Reagan National Airport following the crash has disrupted air travel in the region. The airport is expected to reopen Thursday, but the impact of the disruption may linger for several days.
As the investigation progresses, the focus remains on the victims and their families. The nation mourns the loss of life and awaits answers about the tragic events that unfolded over the Potomac River.
