American Airlines Plane Collides with Army Black Hawk Helicopter Near Washington, D.C.
An American Airlines commercial plane with 60 passengers and four crew members collided with an Army Black Hawk helicopter near Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night. The Army helicopter, which was on a training flight, was carrying three crew members at the time of the crash.
The American Eagle Flight 5342, which had been traveling from Wichita, Kansas, was approaching Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport when the incident occurred. The aircraft was flying at an altitude of approximately 300 feet when it collided with the military helicopter, according to data from FlightRadar24.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed his concern for the passengers and crew on board, confirming that he and a team from the airline would soon travel to the crash site. The airline is in contact with authorities and is assisting with emergency response efforts.
“This is a tragic and serious event. Our concern is for the passengers and crew on board,” American Airlines said in a statement.
The crash is being described as one of the worst air disasters in the United States in over 15 years, with search and rescue operations ongoing at the nearby Potomac River. While the identities of those involved in the crash have not yet been confirmed, authorities are working quickly to locate and assist any survivors.
U.S. President Donald Trump has been briefed on the incident and praised first responders for their “incredible work” in the wake of the tragedy.
