American Airlines Jet, U.S. Army Black Hawk Collide Near Washington, Crash Into Potomac River

A mid-air collision between an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., on January 30, resulted in both aircraft crashing into the Potomac River.

Authorities have confirmed fatalities, though the exact number remains unverified.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that American Eagle Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, was approaching Reagan National Airport when it collided with a Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk helicopter around 9 p.m. local time. The regional jet was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, while the helicopter had three U.S. Army personnel on board.

The U.S. Coast Guard and emergency responders launched a large-scale search and rescue operation in the Potomac River. Helicopters and boats were deployed, while divers searched for survivors. Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Kristi Noem stated, “We are deploying every available U.S. Coast Guard resource for search and rescue efforts in this horrific incident at DCA.”

Takeoffs and landings at Reagan National Airport were suspended following the crash. The Washington, D.C., police confirmed that multiple agencies were involved in rescue operations.

FAA officials stated that an air traffic controller had warned the Black Hawk helicopter, identified as "PAT25," about the incoming jet moments before the collision. An audio recording revealed no response from the helicopter after the warning. A video circulated on social media appeared to show two sets of lights merging before a fireball erupted in the sky.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has opened an investigation into the cause of the collision. The agency is reviewing air traffic control communications, flight data, and eyewitness accounts.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump released a statement saying, “I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident. May God bless their souls.”

The crash has drawn comparisons to the 1982 Air Florida Flight 90 disaster, which also ended in the Potomac River, resulting in 78 deaths. Officials have yet to determine if human error or technical failure played a role in the latest incident.

As authorities continue their investigation, flights at Reagan National remain grounded. Emergency crews are working to recover debris and determine the full extent of the tragedy.