A devastating crash took place over Washington DC when American Airlines Flight 5342 collided with a military helicopter just before 9 p.m. on Wednesday, 29 January 2025.

The terrifying event unfolded above the Potomac River as the American Airlines jet, en route from Wichita, Kansas, was making its final approach to Reagan National Airport.

Details of the Incident

The American Airlines flight, a Bombardier CRJ700, had around 64 passengers onboard.

The collision involved a Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk helicopter, which was carrying three soldiers on a training mission.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the two aircraft collided mid-air while the passenger jet was on approach to Runway 33 at the airport.

Captured in Terrifying Footage

Dramatic footage captured by EarthCam shows the collision in real-time, with a huge explosion followed by debris from both aircrafts falling over the river.

The explosion was so intense that it caused a massive spark visible from the cars below.

In addition, a dashcam video from a nearby driver further documented the explosion as it occurred in the distance.

Rescue Operations and Casualties

First responders quickly mobilized, with at least four people pulled from the water and rushed to the hospital.

Tragically, law enforcement has confirmed that there have been fatalities, though no survivors have been recovered from the river so far.

Rescue teams from across the region, including the US Coast Guard, Maryland State Police divers, and local responders, are working tirelessly to locate any remaining victims.

Authorities Respond to the Crash

In response to the tragedy, the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that all available Coast Guard resources are being deployed to assist with the search and rescue efforts.

The Air Line Pilots Association has also announced that they will send an accident investigation team to assist the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

The Metropolitan Police Department, fireboats, and local law enforcement are also on-site.

Reagan National Airport Temporarily Closed

Following the collision, all flights at Reagan National Airport were halted, and the White House confirmed that President Trump had been briefed on the incident.

In a statement, President Trump offered condolences and praised the work of the first responders, expressing that the government is actively monitoring the situation.

Investigation Underway

The FAA and NTSB have launched investigations into the crash.

The NTSB will lead the investigation into the cause of the collision, and the FAA has confirmed that the American Airlines flight, operated by PSA Airlines, was the one involved in the mid-air incident.

Chilling Water Conditions for Survivors

NBC Chief Meteorologist Doug Kammerer noted that the water temperature in the Potomac River at the time of the crash was a chilling 37 degrees Fahrenheit.

At such a low temperature, anyone in the water would face severe hypothermia after only 15 to 20 minutes, further complicating rescue efforts.

The ongoing investigation, rescue efforts, and tragic loss of life have left the community shaken, with officials vowing to uncover the causes behind this horrific incident.

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

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