A devastating midair collision involving an American Airlines passenger jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter has occurred over the Potomac River near Washington, D.C., leaving a trail of devastation and raising serious safety concerns.
The incident unfolded on the evening of January 29th when American Airlines Flight 5342, a Bombardier CRJ700, collided with the military helicopter while approaching Ronald Reagan National Airport. Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft erupt in flames before plunging into the frigid waters of the Potomac River.
The Black Hawk helicopter, assigned to the 12th Aviation Battalion at Fort Belvoir, was conducting a routine training mission at the time of the collision.
Rescue efforts are ongoing, with emergency responders facing challenging conditions in the cold, dark waters of the river. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a full investigation to determine the cause of this tragic accident, examining factors such as air traffic control communications, weather conditions, and the actions of both pilots.
This incident marks a significant aviation disaster in the United States and has sent shockwaves through the nation.