Photo courtesy of EarthCam and Fox 4 News
Authorities have confirmed that at least 28 bodies have been recovered from the frigid waters of the Potomac River following a catastrophic midair collision between an American Airlines jet and a U.S. Army helicopter near Ronald Reagan National Airport. The crash, which occurred late Wednesday evening, is now considered one of the deadliest aviation disasters in the United States in nearly 24 years.
Details of the Incident
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the collision took place at approximately 9 p.m. ET when American Airlines Flight 5342, arriving from Wichita, Kansas, struck a military Blackhawk helicopter while descending toward the airport. The aircraft, a Bombardier CRJ-701 twin-engine jet, was flying at an altitude of around 400 feet and traveling at roughly 140 miles per hour when it suddenly lost control over the Potomac River.
The commercial jet was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members at the time of the crash. Meanwhile, the Army confirmed that three soldiers were onboard the helicopter, which was conducting a routine training mission.
Rescue and Recovery Efforts
Emergency response teams, including DC Fire and EMS, the Metropolitan Police Department, and multiple federal agencies, have launched an extensive recovery operation. Search teams have located the wreckage of both aircraft in the river, with the jet’s fuselage found overturned and broken into three sections in waist-deep water. Images from the scene show boats surrounding the partially submerged debris as responders work to recover victims.
During an early morning press conference, Fire and EMS Chief John A. Donnelly, Sr. reported that approximately 300 first responders are on-site, facing harsh conditions including strong winds, turbulent waters, and freezing temperatures.
FOX 5 meteorologist Mike Thomas stated that water temperatures near the crash site measured around 35.4 degrees Fahrenheit at the time of impact. According to the National Weather Service, exposure to such conditions can lead to loss of consciousness within 10 to 15 minutes, significantly reducing the chances of survival for those who entered the water.
Ongoing Investigation
Officials have indicated that the search for additional victims remains ongoing, though the likelihood of finding more survivors is slim. The cause of the collision is under investigation, with aviation and military authorities working to determine how the two aircraft came into such a perilous proximity.
As rescue operations continue, this tragedy stands as a stark reminder of the dangers of aviation and the critical importance of air traffic safety measures. Further updates are expected as authorities piece together the events leading up to the devastating crash.
