Washington, DC – In a tragic incident on the evening of January 29, 2025, an American Eagle regional jet collided mid-air with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), resulting in both aircraft crashing into the Potomac River. 

Details of the Incident:

• Aircraft Involved: The passenger jet, operating as American Eagle Flight 5342 from Wichita, Kansas, was a Bombardier CRJ700 carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. The military helicopter was a Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk with three crew members on board. 

• Circumstances: The collision occurred around 9 p.m. as the jet was on its final approach to DCA. Following the impact, both aircraft descended into the Potomac River. 

Rescue Efforts:

Emergency response teams, including the District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department, were promptly dispatched to the scene. Rescue operations were challenged by the Potomac River’s frigid temperature, approximately 42 degrees Fahrenheit, which significantly reduces survival time in the water. 

Current Status:

As of now, specific details regarding casualties or survivors have not been officially released. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a ground stop at Reagan National Airport, halting all takeoffs and landings until further notice. 

Investigation:

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the FAA have initiated investigations to determine the cause of the collision. Preliminary reports suggest that weather conditions, including wind gusts of up to 26 miles per hour at the time of the incident, may have been a contributing factor. 

This tragic event has deeply affected the Washington, D.C. community. Our thoughts are with the individuals involved and their families during this difficult time.