WASHINGTON, D.C. – A devastating mid-air collision between an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. military helicopter over the Potomac River near Reagan National Airport (DCA) late Wednesday night has resulted in a large-scale emergency response. According to early reports from officials, multiple passengers remain underwater, still strapped into their seats inside the submerged wreckage.

Authorities have so far recovered 19 bodies from the water, but as of Thursday morning, no survivors have been confirmed. Emergency responders are continuing their search and recovery operations as officials brace for what could be one of the deadliest aviation disasters in the region’s history.

Details of the Crash

The mid-air collision occurred at approximately 8:53 p.m. on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, when American Eagle Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, was preparing for its final approach into Washington Reagan National Airport. The Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members on a routine flight from Wichita, Kansas (ICT) to Washington, D.C.

The second aircraft involved was a Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk helicopter operated by the U.S. Army. It had three soldiers on board and was conducting a training exercise in the vicinity of the airport at the time of the collision.

According to multiple eyewitness accounts, the two aircraft suddenly collided mid-air over the Potomac River, just north of the 14th Street Bridge. A dramatic explosion followed, lighting up the night sky before both aircraft plunged into the river.

Emergency Response and Recovery Efforts

D.C. Fire and EMS, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), the U.S. Coast Guard, and multiple federal and local emergency response agencies were immediately deployed to the crash site. Search-and-rescue teams arrived within minutes, deploying boats, helicopters, and dive teams to locate victims in the frigid 37-degree waters of the Potomac.

First responders reported that the wreckage of Flight 5342 was found mostly submerged, with portions of the fuselage breaking the surface of the water. Divers who have entered the wreckage confirm that multiple passengers remain inside, strapped to their seats. The military helicopter, heavily damaged, was located further downstream, with debris spread over several miles.

A chilling dispatcher report captured the severity of the scene:

“Officer advised, there’s a helicopter in the water. They found lifeboats retrieving injured, then looking for the aircraft at the moment.”

Despite the swift response, hypothermia and injuries are believed to have significantly diminished the chances of survival for those still in the water. As of the latest update, there have been no confirmed survivors recovered from the crash site.

Ground Stop and Air Travel Disruptions

Following the crash, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an immediate ground stop at Reagan National Airport. All inbound and outbound flights were suspended until further notice, with the airport expected to remain closed through at least 5 a.m. Thursday. Nearby airports, including Dulles International and Baltimore-Washington International, have been affected, with flights diverted or canceled.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation into the crash, with assistance from the FAA and military officials. The FBI’s Washington Field Office has also been involved but has stated that there is no immediate evidence of foul play or terrorism.

Statements from Authorities and Airlines

American Airlines released an official statement regarding the incident:

“We are deeply saddened by reports that American Eagle Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, was involved in an accident near Washington, D.C. Our thoughts and prayers are with those on board and their families. We are working closely with authorities to gather more information.”

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser addressed the public, saying:

“Our prayers are with everyone involved in this terrible tragedy. We are working closely with local and federal agencies to provide support to families and ensure a thorough investigation.”

Eyewitness Accounts and Video Evidence

Multiple witnesses in the Washington, D.C. area reported hearing a loud explosion and seeing a fireball in the sky before the aircraft plummeted into the river.

A security camera at the Kennedy Center captured the moment of impact, showing the aircraft’s descent followed by a fiery explosion. A nearby boater, who was among the first to arrive at the crash site, described the horrifying scene:

“I saw flames in the sky and then a massive splash. When we got closer, all we could see were pieces of debris and luggage floating. It was chaos.”

Investigation and Next Steps

The NTSB has deployed a full team to investigate the cause of the collision. Key aspects of the probe will include:

• Air Traffic Control recordings and radar data to determine how the two aircraft ended up in the same airspace.
• Flight data and cockpit voice recorders from both aircraft, if recoverable.
• Interviews with witnesses and surviving personnel from Reagan National’s control tower.
• Examination of maintenance and operational records for both aircraft.

The U.S. Army has pledged full cooperation with the investigation and is conducting an internal review of the Black Hawk helicopter’s mission parameters at the time of the crash.

Concerns Over Cold Water Survival

Medical experts caution that survival in the Potomac’s 37-degree waters is limited, especially for those trapped inside the aircraft. Hypothermia can set in within minutes, dramatically reducing survival rates.

Emergency responders continue to search for any potential survivors while prioritizing recovery efforts for those still inside the submerged wreckage.

Support for Families and Memorial Efforts

Authorities have set up a family assistance center at a nearby airport facility, where grief counselors and support staff are working with the families of passengers and crew. American Airlines has provided travel accommodations for the victims’ relatives.

Plans for a public memorial service are underway, with local leaders pledging to honor the victims of the tragedy.

Ongoing Developments

The situation remains fluid, with authorities providing updates as the investigation unfolds. The public is urged to avoid the crash area and allow emergency crews to continue their operations unimpeded.

Contact Authorities with Information

Anyone with video footage, eyewitness accounts, or additional information regarding the crash is urged to contact the National Transportation Safety Board at 1-800-WITNESS or submit reports via the NTSB website.

This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.