Rescue efforts are underway following a deadly collision between an American Airlines jet and a military helicopter near Ronald Reagan National Airport, with search teams deployed to locate survivors.
Jet and Military Helicopter Collide Near Washington, D.C.
Jet and Military Helicopter Collide Near Washington, D.C.
Dozens feared missing after passenger plane crashes into Potomac River in shocking accident.
In a dramatic turn of events, an American Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter as it was descending toward Washington D.C's Ronald Reagan National Airport. The incident occurred approximately at 21:00 EST on Wednesday, and the jet was reported to be carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, having just arrived from Wichita, Kansas.
Following the collision, the plane plummeted into the Potomac River, splitting into two sections upon impact. Rescue boats and divers have been deployed to scour the river, as authorities aim to locate any potential survivors amidst the wreckage.
Three service members were aboard the military helicopter, which had departed from Fort Belvoir in Virginia at the time of the incident, according to a defense official. Eyewitness accounts describe chaos as emergency responders sprang into action at the scene.
U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed grave concern regarding the accident, stating he has been "fully briefed" on the situation and commending the efforts of first responders. He vowed to provide further updates as more information becomes available.
As emergency teams continue their search and rescue operations, takeoffs and landings at the airport have been suspended. The Federal Aviation Administration has initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the tragic incident, prompting renewed discussions around aviation safety.
