Washington, D.C. – January 30, 2025
A tragic midair collision late yesterday near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport has left all 60 passengers and four crew members aboard American Eagle Flight 5342 feared dead. The regional jet collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, which was carrying three military personnel, before both aircraft crashed into the Potomac River.
Disaster Strikes in the Sky
American Eagle Flight 5342, arriving from Wichita, Kansas, was on its final approach to Reagan Airport when it struck the military helicopter conducting a training mission. Witnesses reported a fiery explosion in the sky, followed by debris raining down before both aircraft disappeared into the water.
“There was a loud boom, and then flames. It was terrifying,” said one eyewitness near the crash site.
Rescue Efforts and Investigation
Emergency response teams quickly launched a large-scale search operation, but early reports indicate no signs of survivors. Several bodies have been recovered from the river, and authorities fear the worst.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have begun investigations into the cause of the crash. The incident has led to widespread flight cancellations and delays at Reagan National Airport.
This marks one of the deadliest midair collisions in recent U.S. aviation history. More updates will follow as officials continue recovery efforts and search for answers.