A tragic midair collision occurred near Washington, D.C.’s Reagan National Airport (DCA) on the night of January 29, 2025, when American Airlines (AA) Flight 5342, a regional jet operated by PSA Airlines, collided with a U.S. Army Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk helicopter. The incident has triggered an extensive investigation and a large-scale search and rescue operation in the Potomac River.
Details of the Collision
The Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet was on its final approach to Reagan National Airport after departing from Wichita, Kansas, when the collision happened. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the aircraft crashed into the Potomac River at approximately 8:53 p.m. local time. The helicopter was reportedly conducting a training exercise when the accident occurred.
The plane carried 64 passengers and several crew members, while the U.S. Army helicopter was carrying three soldiers. Preliminary reports suggest no survivors have been found so far. Emergency teams, including DC Police, Fire Department, and the Metropolitan Police Department, remain on-site, conducting search and recovery efforts.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the collision, with assistance from FAA officials. The initial findings remain preliminary, and investigators will review all potential factors, including air traffic control communications, mechanical conditions, and weather.
The Air Line Pilots Association and other industry bodies have dispatched investigation teams to support the inquiry. Federal and local authorities stress the investigation may take time, as evidence is gathered from the wreckage in the river.
Political and National Response
The incident has drawn immediate reactions from officials. Kansas Senator Jerry Moran and Senator Roger Marshall both expressed concern, acknowledging the aircraft’s connection to Wichita. They offered prayers and assured citizens of their collaboration with investigating authorities.
President Donald Trump was briefed on the tragedy and has mobilized federal support for the rescue mission. Vice President JD Vance called for national unity and prayer for the victims and their families.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized the administration’s focus on aiding the rescue mission and investigation. Local residents have been urged to cooperate with law enforcement during the ongoing emergency response.
Emergency Services and Support Hotlines
American Airlines has activated its emergency response protocol. Families seeking information about passengers on Flight 5342 can call 800-679-8215 for assistance. Additional contact numbers for international callers are available on the airline’s website.
The Association of Flight Attendants has confirmed two union members were on board and has deployed its Employee Assistance Program (800-424-2406) to offer support to affected crew and their families.
Flight and Helicopter Details
- Flight 5342 (PSA Airlines): The Bombardier CRJ700 was carrying 64 passengers, operated under the American Eagle brand, and had departed from Wichita, Kansas.
- Sikorsky H-60 Helicopter: The U.S. Army Black Hawk, with three soldiers on board, was conducting a training mission near Reagan National Airport.
The FAA has temporarily suspended all flight operations at Reagan National Airport until Friday at 5 a.m. Emergency crews from nearby jurisdictions are providing additional support for the ongoing recovery efforts.
Aviation Safety Context
This crash adds to the list of rare but tragic aviation accidents in the U.S. Recent notable incidents include:
- Asiana Airlines Flight 214 (2013) in San Francisco, which killed three passengers.
- Colgan Air Flight 3407 (2009) near Buffalo, New York, which resulted in 50 fatalities.
As rescue and investigation efforts continue, authorities are working around the clock to recover victims and understand the cause of this catastrophic midair collision. With federal resources mobilized and ongoing support for affected families, the nation mourns yet another devastating aviation disaster.
