A Bombardier CRJ700 aircraft, operating under American Airlines’ regional brand American Eagle, collided with a US military helicopter and crashed into the Potomac River near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Wednesday. The helicopter was conducting a training flight and reportedly did not broadcast its location data.
Following the incident, all outbound flights were grounded, and inbound aircraft were redirected to nearby airports. American Airlines confirmed that Flight 5342 was operated by PSA Airlines, its wholly-owned regional subsidiary. “We’re aware of reports that American Eagle flight 5342, operated by PSA, with service from Wichita, Kansas (ICT) to Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA) has been involved in an incident. We will provide information as it becomes available,” the airline stated.
The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority confirmed on social media that flight operations ceased due to the crash but noted that the terminal remained open. The Federal Aviation Administration identified the helicopter as a Sikorsky H-60 and announced that they would investigate alongside the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). “The NTSB will lead the investigation,” said the FAA.
Video footage captured by EarthCam at Kennedy Center showed a midair explosion followed by debris falling from the sky. Search and rescue efforts are ongoing, with multiple agencies involved including Washington DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services and the FBI. According to NBC News, three people were aboard the helicopter.
NBC 4 Washington reported that sources indicated N709PS was “split in two” and submerged in about seven feet of water. Rescuers faced challenges reaching both aircraft due to unstable conditions in icy waters.
American’s CEO Robert Isom expressed sorrow over the events: “This is a difficult day for all of us at American Airlines, and our efforts now are focused entirely on the needs of our passengers, crew members, partners, first responders, along with their families and loved ones.”
Authorities have recovered some bodies from among those who died in the crash; however, specific casualty numbers remain undisclosed. John Donnelly of Washington Fire and EMS described challenging search conditions: “The challenges are access… there is wind… pieces of ice out there… very tough condition for them to dive in.”
US Figure Skating confirmed members of its community were onboard OH5342 returning from an event in Wichita. Airline leaders worldwide have offered condolences following this tragic incident.
DC Mayor Muriel Bowser held a press conference providing updates on recovery efforts alongside federal agency representatives. Newly appointed Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy assured public cooperation among various agencies handling this incident while emphasizing safety expectations for air travel.
Reagan Airport is set to reopen today at 11:00 local time with secure areas maintained around crash sites. Passengers should check with airlines regarding scheduled operations.
Isom reiterated condolences: “We’re absolutely heartbroken for families… doing everything we can to support all involved.” Authorities believe there are no survivors after last night’s collision.
