Tragedy Strikes: No Survivors in DC Area Military Helicopter and Jet Collision Over Potomac River

WASHINGTON — A tragic incident unfolded late Wednesday when an American Airlines regional jet, American Eagle Flight 5342, collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport in Virginia, resulting in both aircraft plunging into the Potomac River. The American Airlines flight was carrying 64 individuals—60 passengers and four crew members—most of whom were U.S. figure skaters returning from a training camp in Wichita, Kansas.

Jack Potter, the head of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, reported during a Thursday morning press conference that efforts to find survivors were unsuccessful. Recovery operations instead commenced as approximately 300 emergency responders conducted searches in the freezing waters.

The incident occurred around 9 p.m. Eastern, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. D.C. Fire Chief John Donnelly confirmed that 27 bodies had been recovered from the plane, alongside one from the helicopter. As the investigation unfolds, questions about the circumstances surrounding the crash remain predominant.

President Donald Trump addressed the press, indicating uncertainty about the cause but expressing strong opinions. He insinuated links to previous administrations’ policies on diversity and inclusion, stating, “This has been a terrible very short period of time. We’ll get to the bottom of it.” Vice President J.D. Vance and other officials echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for inquiry.

The National Transportation Safety Board will oversee the investigation. Meanwhile, Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy remarked that both aircraft were in routine flight patterns before the collision, yet acknowledged that something went wrong.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser elaborated on the multifaceted rescue efforts, reported significant challenges posed by the depth and murkiness of the Potomac River. The incident prompted assistance from nearby governors, who dispatched personnel to support search initiatives.

Kansas Senator Jerry Moran, present at earlier press briefings, expressed concern for the victims and their families, committed to ensuring proper investigations and support structures. U.S. Figure Skating confirmed several team members were aboard the flight, expressing devastating grief over the tragedy.

Wichita officials remain in contact with American Airlines to determine if Kansans were among the passengers. Mayor Lily Wu stated that they had yet to receive a flight manifest, leaving many questions unanswered.

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson characterized the crash as “unfathomable,” calling for prayer and support for all impacted. As the investigation proceeds, the focus remains on understanding the factors that led to this unfortunate event and preventing future occurrences.

American Airlines is providing updates on the situation through their news portal, with a hotline established for victims’ families to seek information.

Last updated 10:09 a.m., Jan. 30, 2025