US authorities have announced an investigation after a midair crash between an American Airlines aircraft and a military helicopter near Washington DC.
The American Eagle Bombardier CRJ-700 regional jet collided in midair with a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter while on approach to Reagan Washington National airport at around 9pm local time on Wednesday, the US Federal Aviation Administration confirmed.
The flight, operated by PSA Airlines, a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Airlines, had 60 passengers and four crew members on board and was en route from Wichita in Kansas. The helicopter was carrying three US army personnel.
The number of casualties remains unknown although early local reports indicated that a number of bodies had been recovered by emergency services.
CEO Robert Isom provided an update regarding #AA5342 before departing to Washington, D.C. Watch the briefing at https://t.co/DaPCYA2V7D
— americanair (@AmericanAir) January 30, 2025
Washington DC mayor Muriel Bowser said emergency services from across the city’s metropolitan region were “working diligently” in “very dark and cold conditions” to execute the rescue operation on the Potomac River after the crash.
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will lead the investigation into the incident.
American Airlines confirmed the accident and chief executive Robert Isom expressed this deep sorrow in a video message last night while confirming he and a care team from the airline were heading to the scene.
“Our efforts now are entirely focused on the needs of our passengers, crew members, first responders, along with their families and loved ones,” he said.
The carrier was co-operating fully with the NTSB investigation.
“We know that many people will be concerned for the welfare of their loved ones and we have set up a special helpline.
“We will continue to share accurate and timely information as soon as we can but anything we must report must be accurate – we own that to everyone involved.”
In statement, American Airlines said: “Our concern is for the passengers and crew on board the aircraft. We are in contact with authorities and assisting with emergency response efforts.
“If you believe you may have loved ones on board Flight 5342, call American Airlines toll-free at 800-679-8215. Those calling from outside the US can visit news.aa.com for additional phone numbers.
“Family members in Canada, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands can call 800-679-8215 directly.”
An airport statement said: “Around 9 pm on Wednesday evening, emergency personnel at Reagan National airport initiated their response to a crash between a passenger aircraft, identified by the FAA as American Eagle flight 5342, and a Sikorsky helicopter.
“Mutual aid from neighbouring agencies were called to assist, and takeoffs and landings at the airport were halted for the remainder of the evening. We will continue to post information as it becomes available.
“We are not expecting flights to resume until at least 11am [local time] today, January 30. Please check back for updates, and contact your airline directly for schedule updates.”