WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a tragic and catastrophic event, American Eagle Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines under American Airlines, crashed into the frigid waters of the Potomac River late Wednesday night while on approach to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).

The aircraft, an Embraer ERJ-145 regional jet with registration number CRJ-700, was en route from Wichita, Kansas (ICT) to Washington, D.C., carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. Authorities have confirmed that at least 19 people have lost their lives in the accident, and search and rescue operations remain ongoing as emergency teams race against time to locate survivors amid the debris and freezing conditions.

American Airlines CEO Robert Isom addressed the public in an official statement early Thursday morning, expressing profound grief over the incident:

“Our hearts are broken. This is a dark day for American Airlines and for all those impacted by this unspeakable tragedy. We are working closely with local and federal authorities, including the FAA and NTSB, to understand what led to this devastating accident. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the victims, their families, and all those affected.”

Emergency Response and Ongoing Search Efforts

The crash triggered an immediate large-scale response involving multiple agencies, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), D.C. Fire and EMS, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), the U.S. Coast Guard, and local volunteer rescue teams.

D.C. Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly confirmed that first responders arrived at the crash site within minutes of receiving distress calls.

“We received reports of an aircraft down at approximately 8:53 p.m. and immediately deployed rescue boats, divers, and aerial support,” Chief Donnelly stated. “We have recovered 19 bodies so far, but our teams are actively searching for additional survivors. The cold water temperature presents significant challenges, but we remain hopeful.”

The Potomac River’s icy waters—hovering around 37°F—presented an immediate life-threatening situation for anyone in the wreckage. Hypothermia can set in within minutes, further complicating rescue efforts.

As of 3:00 a.m. Thursday, no survivors had been recovered from the submerged portion of the aircraft, but authorities emphasized that rescue efforts would persist until every individual was accounted for.

Eyewitness Accounts and Surveillance Footage

Several witnesses reported seeing the aircraft struggling during its final approach to the airport.

“We were driving across the Arlington Memorial Bridge when we saw the plane coming in way too low,” said D.C. resident Mark Henderson. “There was a flash, and within seconds, it was in the water. It was horrifying.”

Security cameras from the Kennedy Center captured the moment of impact, showing the aircraft descending at an abnormal angle before crashing into the river.

Additionally, air traffic control recordings reveal that the pilots reported control difficulties moments before the crash. One of the last transmissions from the flight crew included a distress call indicating possible engine failure.

Flight History and Aircraft Details

American Eagle Flight 5342 was a regularly scheduled regional flight operated by PSA Airlines under American Airlines. The Embraer ERJ-145 regional jet had completed multiple successful flights earlier in the day without any reported mechanical issues.

The aircraft was last serviced on January 25, 2025, and was cleared for operation without any noted mechanical discrepancies, according to maintenance logs obtained by investigators.

Investigation Underway: What Went Wrong?

The FAA and NTSB have launched a full-scale investigation into the cause of the crash.

“We will be analyzing the aircraft’s black box, flight data recorder, and cockpit voice recorder to understand what transpired in the final moments,” said NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy. “We are also collecting radar data, maintenance records, and pilot history as part of our preliminary assessment.”

Aviation analysts are considering several possibilities, including mechanical failure, pilot error, severe weather conditions, or external interference.

Early reports suggest that a strong gust of wind may have played a role in destabilizing the aircraft during its approach. However, investigators have yet to confirm whether this contributed to the crash.

American Airlines Response and Support for Families

American Airlines has established an emergency response center and is providing assistance to the families of the victims.

“We have mobilized crisis response teams to support the loved ones of those affected,” CEO Robert Isom stated. “Grief counselors, medical professionals, and logistical support teams are available to help in any way possible.”

A dedicated hotline has been set up for families seeking information about passengers: American Airlines Family Assistance Hotline: 1-800-435-9792

Nationwide Impact and Flight Disruptions

In the aftermath of the crash, the FAA has implemented a temporary ground stop at Reagan National Airport, delaying flights nationwide.

All incoming and outgoing flights at DCA were suspended until further notice.

Additionally, air traffic controllers at neighboring airports, including Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), have been placed on high alert for any potential flight safety concerns.

Reactions from National Leaders

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser addressed the tragedy in an overnight press conference, calling it “one of the most heartbreaking aviation incidents in recent history.”

“We stand with the families of those lost and with the first responders who are working tirelessly in these challenging conditions. The entire city of Washington, D.C. mourns this devastating loss.”

President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation and issued a statement offering federal support.

“Our hearts go out to all those affected by this unimaginable loss. We are in direct contact with American Airlines, the FAA, and first responders to ensure every available resource is utilized in recovery efforts.”

Public Urged to Avoid Speculation and Await Official Updates

The NTSB urged the public to refrain from speculation as the investigation unfolds.

“We understand that people want answers, but it is critical to allow investigators time to analyze all available evidence before drawing conclusions,” NTSB Chair Homendy emphasized.

Conclusion

As dawn approaches, search and recovery teams continue to battle freezing conditions in hopes of finding survivors. The Potomac River, which has witnessed historical tragedies such as the 1982 crash of Air Florida Flight 90, once again serves as the backdrop for another aviation disaster.

Authorities remain committed to transparency, vowing to keep the public informed with the latest developments.

For now, the nation watches, waits, and prays for those still unaccounted for in this unimaginable tragedy.