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Thursday, January 30, 2025
Washington, D.C. – On January 29, 2025, a mid-air collision occurred near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, involving American Airlines Flight 5342, a Bombardier CRJ700 operated by PSA for American Airlines, and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter. The incident resulted in both the passenger plane and the helicopter crashing into the Potomac River.
The CRJ700, originating from Wichita, Kansas, and carrying 64 individuals, was on approach to Reagan National Airport when it collided with the military helicopter. The impact led to the immediate descent of the passenger plane into the Potomac River. Emergency response teams, including fireboats, from the surrounding areas were promptly dispatched to the scene to conduct rescue operations. The wreckage of both the plane and helicopter were found in the Potomac River.
Eyewitnesses reported the collision, noting the rapid response of emergency services. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the collision. The FAA also reported that Reagan National Airport would be closed until 5 AM on January 30 as a result of the accident.
US President Donald Trump was briefed on the accident, and issued a statement in which he said, “May God Bless their souls. I am monitoring the situation and will provide more details as they arise.” Vice President J. D. Vance also addressed the incident, saying in a social media post, “Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan airport this evening. We’re monitoring the situation, but for now let’s hope for the best.”
