A mid-air collision involving an American Airlines regional jet and a military helicopter has sparked concerns and questions from former President Donald Trump, who believes the incident “should have been prevented.”
The collision occurred just before 9 p.m. on Wednesday near Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C.
Trump’s immediate response expressed sympathy for the victims and raised several questions about the circumstances leading to the crash.
Trump’s Initial Reactions
Upon hearing the news, Trump took to his Truth Social platform, urging people to pray for those affected by the tragedy.
In his post, he questioned why the helicopter did not avoid the plane and why the control tower didn’t provide better guidance.
Trump highlighted that the airplane was flying on a “perfect and routine” approach, and he wondered why the helicopter didn’t take evasive action.
“I don’t understand why the helicopter didn’t go up, down, or turn,” Trump wrote.
He also criticized the control tower for not giving more clear instructions to the helicopter.
“This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented.
NOT GOOD!!!” he added. His post concluded with a heartfelt message: “What a terrible night this has been. God bless you all!”
Details of the Collision and Emergency Response
The crash involved American Airlines Flight 5342, a Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet traveling from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, D.C.
The flight collided with a Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk helicopter, which was carrying three soldiers.
Following the incident, emergency responders immediately launched a search and rescue operation along the Potomac River.
Rescue teams from various agencies, including DC Fire and EMS, coordinated efforts to locate survivors.
According to NBC Washington, at least four individuals were pulled from the water by rescue crews, though the full extent of casualties remained unclear at the time.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Statements
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the collision took place as the plane was approaching Runway 33 at Reagan National Airport.
The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched investigations into the incident.
The NTSB is leading the inquiry to determine the cause of the crash.
The incident was also addressed by Vice President JD Vance, who offered his thoughts and prayers for those involved.
“Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan airport this evening,” he posted on social media.
Search and Rescue Operations
Images and video footage from the scene showed emergency teams along the Potomac River, with helicopters searching the area.
The water temperature at the time of the crash was about 37°F, which experts say is dangerously cold.
At that temperature, people in the water have only about 15 to 20 minutes before hypothermia begins to set in.
Political and Official Reactions
Several political figures, including Kansas Senator Roger Marshall, expressed concern over the incident.
Marshall, who is in contact with authorities, posted a message urging prayers for the passengers and their families.
“We are in contact with authorities working to get answers,” he said.
The White House confirmed that President Trump had been briefed on the situation.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the president was aware of the crash and the ongoing efforts to respond to it.
Final Words on the Incident
As investigations continue, the focus remains on the victims and the families affected by the crash.
American Airlines, along with the FAA and NTSB, are providing updates on the situation.
Meanwhile, the public remains hopeful for positive outcomes in the ongoing search efforts.
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