American Airlines jet and US Army Black Hawk crash into Potomac River
Authorities have confirmed that no survivors are expected after a mid-air collision between an American Airlines regional jet and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter over Washington, DC, on Wednesday night (Jan 29). The aircraft crashed into the Potomac River, leading to an extensive emergency response.
Washington DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services Chief John Donnelly stated,
“We don’t believe there are any survivors from this accident, and we have recovered 27 people from their plane and one from the helicopter. We are switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation.”
Officials express grief over collision
At a press briefing held at Reagan National Airport on Thursday (Jan 30), Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser expressed condolences, calling it a “profound tragedy” for the city.
“I speak for all of us when I say, and certainly all Washingtonians, how very sad we are. This morning, we all share in a profound sense of grief. I do want to thank the first responders who acted quickly last night, who ran towards danger, went into a very frigid river, and have worked throughout the night,” Bowser said.
Collision details: Unclear why military aircraft entered flight path
The crash has raised critical aviation safety concerns. American Airlines CEO Robert Isom stated that the airline was unable to determine why the Black Hawk helicopter entered the flight path of the PSA-operated regional jet.
“This was a clear night, last night. The helicopter was in a standard pattern… the American Airlines flight coming into land was in a standard flight pattern. The fuselage of the American Airlines plane was inverted. It’s been located in three different sections. It’s in about waist-deep water,” said US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
Ongoing investigation and response
Emergency teams have recovered at least 30 bodies, according to local police reports. Search efforts are still underway to locate more victims and debris from the wreckage.
Authorities, including the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), are investigating the circumstances that led to the collision. Further updates are expected as officials analyze flight data and communication records.
