Tragedy Unfolds: American Airlines Jet and U.S. Army Black Hawk Helicopter Collide
Collision and Crash
Scores of people were feared dead after an American Airlines regional passenger jet with 64 people on board and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter collided and crashed into the frigid Potomac River near Reagan Washington National Airport. The midair collision occurred as the passenger jet, traveling from Wichita in Kansas, was on approach to land at Reagan.
Rescue Efforts
First responders were in "rescue mode" as they worked to recover bodies from the water. At least 18 bodies had been recovered, with multiple bodies pulled from the water. The rescue operation was highly complex, with conditions extremely rough for the responders. Hypothermia was a concern for any possible survivors and first responders.
Investigation
The Pentagon said it was launching an investigation into the collision. Air traffic control recordings appear to capture the final attempted communications with the helicopter, call sign PAT25, before it collides with the plane, described as CRJ. President Donald Trump questioned the actions of the helicopter crew and air traffic controllers, saying the helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time.
Passengers and Crew
Among those on board were Russian former world ice skating champions Yevgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, as well as several U.S. ice skaters, family members, and coaches returning from a camp following figure skating championships in Wichita.
Airport Closure
The airport would remain closed until at least 11 a.m. on Thursday.
Previous Crashes
In 1982, Air Florida Flight 90 crashed into the 14th Street Bridge over the Potomac River, killing 70 passengers and four crew members. Only four passengers and one crew member survived. The last deadly major crash involving a commercial airliner in the U.S. was in 2009, when all 49 people aboard a Colgan Air flight died when the plane crashed in New York state.
Conclusion
The collision and crash of the American Airlines jet and U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter has left many questions unanswered. As the investigation continues, it is clear that this tragedy has had a profound impact on the families of those affected and the wider community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many people were on board the plane?
A: 60 passengers and four crew members.
Q: How many people were on board the helicopter?
A: Three soldiers.
Q: What was the cause of the collision?
A: The cause of the collision is still under investigation.
Q: Are there any survivors?
A: The status of survivors is unknown at this time.
Q: What is the current condition of the airport?
A: The airport is closed until at least 11 a.m. on Thursday.