BREAKING! Flights Halted In Washington D.C. After American Eagle Jet & Army Helicopter Collide Midair (VIDEO) Ronald Reagan National Airport

Midair Collision: American Airlines Jet and Army Helicopter in D.C.

A significant midair incident involving a passenger jet and an Army helicopter has resulted in the suspension of flights at Washington, D.C.’s Ronald Reagan National Airport. The crash occurred around 9 p.m. local time, according to reports from the Associated Press. The affected aircraft was an American Eagle flight arriving from Witchita, Kansas, which has heightened concerns for passenger safety and operational stability at the airport.

Editor’s Note: This breaking story is being updated live. Please refresh for updates.

Critical Updates on Rescue Operations Following Jet and Army Helicopter Collision

In response to the collision, the Federal Aviation Administration has temporarily ceased all takeoffs and landings at the D.C. airport to prioritize safety and facilitate rescue efforts. As details continue to emerge, sources from CNN have indicated that there are confirmed fatalities; however, the specific number of casualties remains undisclosed. There is currently uncertainty regarding the possibility of survivors from the incident.

The tragic event unfolded over the Potomac River, where the passenger jet and a Blackhawk helicopter collided. Emergency rescue teams have launched inflatable boats from the vicinity of the airport along the George Washington Parkway to conduct search operations. In addition, Maryland Governor Wes Moore has confirmed that the Maryland State Police are deploying divers into the river at the crash site, while Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has also mobilized resources for the ongoing rescue mission.

American Airlines Provides Information on Affected Flight and Passenger Safety

In light of the unfolding situation, American Airlines promptly addressed the incident involving the flight at Ronald Reagan National Airport via X. They acknowledged awareness of the midair collision and committed to providing further information as it becomes available. In a detailed press release, American Airlines confirmed that the American Eagle flight 5342 was carrying 60 passengers along with four crew members. The airline has also shared contact details for those seeking information about their loved ones on board.

“Our concern is for the passengers and crew on board the aircraft. We are in contact with authorities and assisting with emergency response efforts. If you believe you may have loved ones on board Flight 5342, call American Airlines toll-free at 800-679-8215. Those calling from outside the U.S. can visit news.aa.com for additional phone numbers. Family members in Canada, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands can call 800-679-8215 directly.”

Understanding the Military Helicopter Involved in the Jet Crash Incident

Reports from the Associated Press indicate that air traffic control attempted to alert the military Blackhawk helicopter regarding the presence of the passenger jet. “PAT25, do you have the CRJ in sight?” was the inquiry made by the controller, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

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Media Chief Heather Chairez from the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region provided additional insights to CNN, revealing that the Black Hawk was engaged in a training exercise, although the specific takeoff location of the aircraft remains unclear at this time.

Shortly after the collision, the air traffic control tower initiated a redirection of air traffic before the FAA ultimately grounded all flights in the area. An observation camera from the Kennedy Center captured footage that reportedly shows a fireball in the sky at the moment of impact between the jet and the helicopter, underscoring the severity of the incident.

Emotional Accounts from Families of Passengers Aboard the Jet

Hamaad Raza, whose wife was on the flight, shared his distressing experience with WUSA9. He recounted that his wife had sent him a text indicating they were just 20 minutes away from landing. Concern grew as his replies failed to go through, heightening his anxiety about her safety.

“I’m just praying that someone is pulling her out of the river right now as we speak,” Raza expressed to the news outlet, emphasizing the emotional turmoil families are experiencing.

President Donald Trump is reportedly “fully briefed” on the critical situation surrounding the jet and helicopter collision and is closely monitoring developments. This incident is reminiscent of past tragedies, notably in January 1982, when 78 lives were lost after an Air Florida flight crashed into the Potomac River due to adverse weather conditions.

This breaking story is being updated live. Please refresh for updates.

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