A tragic mid-air collision occurred on January 29, 2025, at approximately 8:47 p.m. EST near Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C. American Airlines Flight 5342, a Bombardier CRJ-701ER regional jet carrying 60 passengers and 4 crew members, collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter carrying 3 soldiers. The collision resulted in both aircraft crashing into the Potomac River. The American Airlines flight, operated by PSA Airlines, had departed from Wichita, Kansas, and was approaching Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport when the collision occurred. The Black Hawk helicopter, on a routine training flight from Fort Belvoir, belonged to Bravo Company of the 12th Aviation Battalion.
President Trump Blames DEI for American Airlines Plane Crash Near Reagan Airport
In his remarks, Trump suggested that the hiring practices of the FAA, which he claims were altered under the Biden administration to prioritize diversity and inclusion over merit, may have played a role in the disaster. He stated, “We must have only the highest standards for those who work in our aviation system,” asserting that under his first administration, he had raised hiring standards for air traffic controllers, only for them to be reversed by President Biden.
Trump specifically pointed to FAA policies that include recruiting individuals with disabilities as part of a broader diversity and inclusion initiative. “They want people with severe intellectual disabilities, psychiatric problems, and other mental and physical conditions to be air traffic controllers. I don’t think so,” he said.
While acknowledging that a full investigation is still underway, Trump stated, “We do not know what led to this crash, but we have some very strong opinions and ideas.” He reiterated that his administration had recently signed an executive order to reinstate strict qualification requirements for air traffic controllers.
Continue Reading: President Trump Blames DEI for American Airlines Plane Crash Near Reagan Airport
Investigators Probe Deadly American Airlines Mid-Air Collision Near Reagan National Airport
Washington, D.C. – January 30, 2025 – Federal investigators are working to determine the cause of the catastrophic mid-air collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter that occurred near Reagan National Airport on Wednesday night. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched a full-scale investigation, with assistance from the U.S. Department of Defense and other agencies.
According to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Shan Duffy, both aircraft were following standard flight paths before the collision. “This was not an unusual flight pattern,” Duffy stated, emphasizing that military aircraft often operate in the area alongside commercial flights. However, why the Black Hawk was flying at a low altitude remains a key question for investigators.
Authorities have confirmed that the flight data recorders, commonly known as “black boxes,” from both aircraft will be recovered and analyzed to determine what transpired in the moments leading up to the crash. Investigators will also review communications between the aircraft and air traffic control to establish whether any warnings were issued.
“The safety of American airspace is our highest priority,” Duffy added. “We are working closely with the NTSB, FAA, and military officials to understand what went wrong and to prevent a tragedy like this from happening again.”
The crash site has been secured, and the fuselage of the American Airlines plane was found in three sections in the Potomac River. Recovery crews are working under difficult conditions to retrieve all debris for further examination.
NTSB officials stated that they will provide updates as they gather more information. However, they warned that determining the exact cause of the collision could take weeks or months.
“There are many unanswered questions,” said an NTSB spokesperson. “Our team is focused on reconstructing the events leading up to this tragedy, analyzing all available data, and ensuring that the families of the victims get the answers they deserve.”
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom confirmed that PSA Airlines, the operator of Flight 5342, is fully cooperating with the investigation. “Our focus remains on supporting the families and assisting authorities in any way possible,” Isom said.
Senator Mark Warner acknowledged long-standing concerns about air traffic congestion in the D.C. area but stressed the importance of waiting for NTSB findings before speculating on any systemic issues. “We have consistently raised concerns about the busy airspace near Reagan National, but right now, our focus is on supporting the investigation and ensuring this never happens again,” Warner said.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Search and Recovery Efforts Underway Following Deadly Plane Crash Near Reagan National Airport
Washington, D.C. – January 30, 2025 – Search and recovery teams continue their efforts following the devastating mid-air collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport on Wednesday night. Authorities have confirmed that the mission has now transitioned from a rescue operation to a full-scale recovery effort, with no survivors expected.
According to Chief John Donnelly of the D.C. Fire and EMS Department, emergency responders worked tirelessly overnight in extreme conditions, including heavy winds, freezing temperatures, and ice-covered waters. “Despite the harsh environment, our teams acted swiftly, navigating through dangerous waters to locate and recover victims,” Donnelly said.
As of this morning, recovery teams have retrieved 27 victims from the American Airlines flight and one from the helicopter. The search for additional remains continues, with the D.C. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner taking the lead in identifying and reuniting victims with their families. The recovery operation is also being supported by medical examiners from Virginia and the U.S. Army.
More than 300 personnel from multiple local, state, and federal agencies have been deployed in the effort, including the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, the FBI, the NTSB, the U.S. Coast Guard, and numerous fire departments from Maryland and Virginia.
Chief Donnelly acknowledged the heroic efforts of the first responders who braved dangerous conditions to carry out their duties. “These responders worked through the night, risking their own safety to bring closure to the families affected by this tragedy,” he said.
Authorities have confirmed that debris from the crash has been scattered across the Potomac River, with strong winds carrying wreckage as far as the Wilson Bridge. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash, while the recovery team continues its mission to retrieve victims and aircraft remains.
“This is a heartbreaking day for our community,” Mayor Muriel Bowser said. “We are doing everything possible to bring closure to the families and ensure a thorough investigation into what happened.”
Further updates are expected as recovery efforts progress and investigators work to determine the circumstances that led to this tragic accident.
CEO Jack Potter Provides Update on Airport Response and Family Support Following Tragic Crash
Jack Potter, the CEO of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA), provided an update on the airport’s response to the crash and the efforts to support the families involved:
- Family Assistance: He mentioned that American Airlines has set up a dedicated phone line for families of those on the plane (1-800-679-8215) and that the airline has opened a family support center in the airport’s lounge to assist those waiting for information.
- Airport Operations: He confirmed that 19 flights had been diverted to Dulles and that Reagan National Airport would remain closed until at least 11:00 AM the following day, advising passengers to check flight statuses before heading to the airport.
- Support for Rescue Efforts: He expressed gratitude to all the mutual aid responders from various agencies, including those from Maryland, Virginia, and the Coast Guard, for their continued efforts in the ongoing rescue operation.
- Coordination: Potter also acknowledged the ongoing coordination between federal, state, and local agencies, including the NTSB, to manage the situation and aid in the recovery operations.
Senator Jerry Moran Expresses Deep Concern and Commitment to Support Following Tragic American Airlines Midair Collision
Senator Jerry Moran expressed his deep concern and condolences following the tragic crash. He acknowledged the personal connection to the incident, as many people in Kansas, especially from the Wichita area, are likely to know individuals on the flight. He also noted that he had lobbied for the establishment of the direct flight from Kansas to Washington, D.C., which has been operational for about a year. Moran shared that the situation was deeply personal, not just as a public official but as someone with close ties to the community affected by the crash.
He further emphasized that both he and his colleague, Senator Roger Marshall, were committed to supporting the rescue efforts and ensuring that the U.S. Senate would remain engaged in the investigation and response to the tragedy. Moran expressed solidarity with the victims’ families and the broader community, offering prayers for the responders’ safety and for the recovery of the people on the flight. He concluded with a sense of mourning, stating that the tragedy was heartbreaking, particularly when considering the loss of life, including the lives of the flight crew and military personnel.
American Airlines–Black Hawk Midair Crash Over Potomac Leaves Dozens Feared Lost
ARLINGTON, VA (TANTV Studios) — A devastating midair collision between an American Airlines passenger jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter has left emergency crews conducting an intensive search operation along the frigid waters of the Potomac River near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The incident happened Sunday night at approximately 8:48 p.m. ET, as the American Airlines flight was approaching the airport from Kansas, carrying 64 passengers, and the helicopter was conducting a military operation with three personnel on board.
Collision and Initial Response
- Crash Time & Location: The FAA Tower alerted first responders to the accident at 8:48 p.m. Within minutes, units from DC Fire and EMS, the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA), the Metropolitan Police Department, and the U.S. Park Police arrived to find both aircraft submerged in the cold, dark river.
- Difficult Conditions: Rescue teams face near-freezing temperatures and murky waters roughly eight feet deep, compounded by wind and ice on the river’s surface. Crews have deployed multiple boats, divers, and helicopters, including resources from Maryland State Police and the U.S. Coast Guard, in a unified search and rescue effort.
Victims and Ongoing Rescue Efforts
- Number of People On Board: Officials confirm that 64 passengers and crew were on the American Airlines flight, while three service members were aboard the Black Hawk. Authorities have not released a formal count of survivors or confirmed fatalities as the operation remains active.
- Family Support: American Airlines has set up a dedicated hotline at 1-800-679-8215 for families seeking information. At Reagan National Airport, airline representatives have opened a family assistance center, staffed with counselors to provide support to those awaiting updates on loved ones.
- Airport Operations: Reagan National Airport will remain closed until at least 11:00 a.m. Monday, with 19 inbound flights already diverted to Washington Dulles International. Passengers flying into or out of the D.C. area are urged to check flight statuses and plan for potential disruptions.
Leadership and Investigation
- Official Statements:
- Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser expressed condolences to those affected, praising first responders for their swift reaction.
- Secretary of Transportation Shaun Duffy pledged full federal support, adding that the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will take the lead in the investigation.
- U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall of Kansas highlighted the personal impact on their constituents, acknowledging that many on board were returning home or visiting Washington.
- NTSB Inquiry: Investigators will focus on the moments leading up to the crash, including any communications between air traffic controllers, the passenger jet, and the helicopter. Officials caution that the process could take months, with preliminary findings expected after thorough recovery and analysis of flight data and debris.
Community Assistance
Authorities urge the public to avoid travel near the crash site to allow unobstructed access for emergency teams. They also stress caution for any individuals on or near the water, as rescue boats and divers continue to navigate challenging conditions.
As the rescue operation continues into the early hours of Monday, officials remain hopeful that survivors may still be located. Further updates are expected once daylight allows for an expanded search and investigative effort. Anyone seeking information regarding passengers or crew should contact the airline hotline or look for official updates from the mayor’s office and MWAA.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will be investigating the crash. The FBI is also assisting with the response efforts, though they have stated that there are no indications of terrorism or criminal activity. This incident marks one of the most significant aviation tragedies involving a U.S. passenger flight in recent years. As the situation develops, authorities continue to focus on search and rescue efforts while beginning to piece together the events leading to this devastating collision
A massive search and rescue operation is currently underway in the Potomac River. Multiple agencies, including the Metropolitan Police Department, D.C. Fire, and Emergency Medical Services, and various federal agencies, are involved in the rescue efforts. The operation has been hampered by cold water temperatures, estimated to be in the 40s Fahrenheit, raising concerns about hypothermia for potential survivors.
While exact numbers remain unconfirmed, there have been reports of fatalities. CBS News reported that at least 18 bodies had been recovered as of 11:30 p.m. EST on the day of the crash. Four people were reportedly removed from the water and taken to a local hospital. The search for survivors continues.
As a result of the incident, all departures and arrivals at Reagan National Airport have been suspended. Flights are being rerouted to nearby airports, including Dulles International Airport and Baltimore/Washington International Airport.
This a developing story and will be updated
