A devastating crash between an American Airlines flight and a Black Hawk helicopter has led to a large-scale search and rescue operation, with dive teams scouring the Potomac River for survivors.

Details of the Crash Incident

Flight 5342, originating from Wichita, Kansas, was attempting to land at Ronald Reagan International Airport in Washington, DC, when it collided with a Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk helicopter just before 9pm.

The helicopter was carrying three soldiers at the time, according to the US Department of Defense.

Emergency services, including the Metropolitan Police Department and DC Fire Department, have been working tirelessly to coordinate the rescue efforts.

The search and rescue operation is focused on the Potomac River, where the wreckage has been found.

Confirmed Casualties and Immediate Response

At least 19 fatalities have been reported so far, though NBC Washington has also confirmed that rescue crews were able to pull at least four people from the river to safety.

The crash has led to the temporary closure of Reagan International Airport as authorities continue their efforts to locate survivors.

The incident has drawn attention from officials in the Trump administration, with newly appointed Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirming that he is on-site at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) headquarters to monitor the situation.

Details of the Aircraft and Passengers Onboard

American Airlines has confirmed that Flight 5342, a Bombardier CRJ700, was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members when it crashed.

The aircraft was originally scheduled to land at Reagan International at 9:03 pm after departing from Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport earlier in the evening.

The military Black Hawk helicopter, which was on a training flight, originated from Fort Belvoir, Virginia, and was carrying three soldiers.

What Happened During the Crash?

The crash occurred while the American Airlines flight was descending to land on Runway 33 at Reagan International.

The plane was only about 300 feet above the ground when the collision occurred, splitting the plane in half.

The helicopter was also left upside down and unstable after the crash.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing the aircraft in distress just before the impact.

One witness described seeing sparks shooting from the plane as it fell toward the river, while others recalled hearing loud noises and seeing a large flash of light before the crash.

Search and Rescue Operation Underway

Local, state, and federal authorities have mobilized to assist with the search and rescue mission.

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin confirmed that first responders from the surrounding regions were quick to assist, while Maryland Governor Wes Moore stated that divers from the Maryland State Police had been deployed to assist with the operation.

At the federal level, the FBI and the US Coast Guard are working alongside local responders.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that every available resource is being used to aid in the search.

Chances of Survival and Rescue Challenges

NBC’s Chief Meteorologist Doug Kammerer has noted that the water temperature in the Potomac River at the time of the incident was around 37 degrees Fahrenheit.

In such cold conditions, anyone submerged in the water would only have 15 to 20 minutes before they begin suffering from hypothermia.

Cold shock, which causes panic and an immediate physical response, further complicates the survival chances for any potential survivors.

Reagan International Airport Temporarily Closed

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced that Reagan National Airport will remain closed until at least 5am on Friday due to the ongoing investigation and rescue efforts.

All takeoffs and landings were suspended immediately following the crash.

The full scope of the tragedy is still unfolding as rescue operations continue and authorities work to determine the cause of the collision.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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