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| Tragic Mid-Air Collision Over Washington, D.C. |
On the evening of January 29, 2025, a devastating mid-air collision occurred near Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., involving an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter.The crash took place over the Potomac River, leading to a massive search and rescue operation
The collision happened around 9 PM EST as the American Airlines flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, was approaching the airport.The jet, which had departed from Wichita, Kansas, collided with the Black Hawk helicopter, resulting in both aircraft crashing into the river.Videos of the incident, showing a fireball erupting in the sky, quickly went viral on social media.
Emergency services, including multiple agencies, were immediately deployed to the crash site.The airport halted all takeoffs and landings as emergency personnel worked tirelessly to rescue survivors from the freezing waters of the Potomac River.The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the collision.
Senator Ted Cruz of Texas confirmed on social media that there are fatalities, though the exact number remains unknown.The U.S. Army confirmed that three soldiers were on board the helicopter at the time of the crash.American Airlines reported that the jet had a capacity of up to 65 passengers, but the number of passengers and crew on board at the time of the crash has not been confirmed.
The NTSB is gathering more information about the incident, and authorities are working to ensure the safety of all involved.This tragic event marks the first fatal U.S. passenger airplane accident since February 2009, raising serious safety concerns.
As the investigation continues, our thoughts are with the victims and their families. The aviation community and authorities are committed to uncovering the cause of this tragic incident and preventing future occurrences.
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Business Today - Plane collides with military BlackHawk helicopter mid-air near Reagan Airport; takeoffs, landings halted
ABC News - Multiple fatalities as aircraft collide over Washington DC and crash into river