Efforts to recover victims and debris continue in the Potomac River after a tragic midair collision involving a passenger plane and a military helicopter near Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C. Officials have confirmed the recovery of at least 19 bodies as of early morning.
Details of the Midair Collision
The incident occurred when American Eagle Flight 5342, carrying 60 passengers and 4 crew members, collided midair with an Army Black Hawk helicopter. The helicopter was on a training flight with a crew of three soldiers and was based at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. The collision took place as the passenger plane approached Reagan National Airport for landing.
Recovery Efforts in the Potomac River
Authorities are working tirelessly in the Potomac River to locate any survivors, recover additional bodies, and find key debris that could help investigators understand the cause of the accident. The recovery operation has been challenging due to the darkness and water conditions. Law enforcement sources shared that by 2:50 a.m. ET, 19 bodies had been found, but more search efforts are ongoing.
Airport Operations Affected
Reagan National Airport remains closed until at least 11 a.m. ET as investigators and emergency response teams continue their work. The closure is expected to affect flights and travel schedules, so passengers are advised to check with airlines before heading to the airport.
What Happens Next?
Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and other agencies will conduct a detailed investigation to determine how the collision happened and whether mechanical failure, human error, or other factors played a role. Debris from both the plane and helicopter will be analyzed to uncover crucial evidence.