Eighteen bodies have been recovered from the icy waters of the Potomac River after a mid-air collision involving a passenger plane and a US Army helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Authorities fear the death toll could rise as search and rescue operations continue in freezing temperatures.
At approximately 9:00 PM local time (02:00 GMT), a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700, operating as American Airlines Flight 5432, collided with a US Army Sikorsky H-60 helicopter as it approached the airport. The commercial jet had departed Wichita, Kansas, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, according to American Airlines. The helicopter, which had three US soldiers on board, had taken off from Fort Belvoir in Virginia.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing the aircraft bank sharply before impact, with sparks trailing from its fuselage. One witness, Ari Schulman, described the crash as a “giant Roman candle” lighting up the night sky. Another, Jimmy Mazeo, who was dining near the airport, recalled noticing erratic flight patterns before the collision.
Rescue teams, including police boats and fire department divers, have been scouring the Potomac River for survivors. CBS News reports that at least 18 bodies have been retrieved, but officials have not yet confirmed the total number of casualties. The wreckage of the passenger jet is partially submerged in the river, while the helicopter was found upside down in the water.
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport has been temporarily closed as authorities investigate the crash. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched a full inquiry into the cause of the accident.
President Donald Trump issued a statement expressing his condolences: “May God bless their souls. Thank you for the incredible work being done by our first responders.” Vice-President JD Vance urged prayers for the victims, while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed they were closely monitoring developments.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom released a video statement expressing the company’s deep sorrow over the tragedy. The airline has promised full cooperation with investigators and support for the affected families.
Authorities will continue the search and rescue mission throughout the night, with updates expected in the coming hours. The FAA and NTSB will focus on determining the factors leading to the collision, including possible miscommunication or technical failures. The nation mourns this tragic loss as Washington grapples with one of its deadliest aviation disasters in recent years.
