A devastating midair collision occurred near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Wednesday night, involving an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter. The crash resulted in the deaths of all 67 individuals on board both aircraft.
The American Airlines Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, was en route from Wichita, Kansas, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. As it approached the airport around 9 p.m., it collided with a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter from Bravo Company, 12th Aviation Battalion, based at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. The helicopter had three military personnel on board and was conducting an annual proficiency training flight, which included a required night evaluation using night vision goggles.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth addressed the nation, stating, “It’s a tragedy, a horrible loss of life for those 64 souls on that civilian airliner. And of course, the three soldiers in that Black Hawk. They’re in our prayers, their families and their communities as people are notified.”
Recovery operations have been underway in the Potomac River, with nearly 30 bodies recovered so far. Authorities have transitioned from a rescue to a recovery mission, indicating that no survivors are expected.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the U.S. military have initiated a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of the collision. Preliminary reports suggest that both aircraft were operating within standard parameters, but the exact cause remains under investigation.
The Pentagon has ordered a 48-hour pause in flying operations for the unit involved in the crash to conduct a safety review. Other military units, such as the National Guard, will continue to assist in recovery efforts during this period.
As the investigation continues, the nation mourns the loss of those who perished in this tragic accident.
