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Collision near Washington involves American Airlines jet and military helicopter

Collision near Washington involves American Airlines jet and military helicopter
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Caroline Tanner News reporter | The Points Guy

Emergency responders have reported a tragic incident involving a midair collision between an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army helicopter near Washington, D.C. The accident occurred shortly before 9 p.m. EST on Wednesday as the aircraft was preparing to land at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

The commercial jet, operated by PSA Airlines, was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. It collided with a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter, which had three people on board and was on a training mission.

In a news conference held Thursday morning, D.C. Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly stated: "At this point, we don't believe there are any survivors from this accident," confirming that bodies had been recovered from both aircraft.

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The National Transportation Safety Board has initiated an investigation into the crash. NTSB board member J. Todd Inman emphasized their mission is "to understand not just what happened, but why it happened." Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth suggested potential error by the Army helicopter might be involved, stating: "Tragically, last night, a mistake was made."

American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed condolences for those affected by the tragedy: "We're absolutely heartbroken for the family and loved ones of the passengers and crew members." The airline has set up support services for families at DCA.

Following the crash, flight operations at DCA were halted temporarily but resumed with disruptions later Thursday morning. Several airlines issued travel waivers due to significant cancellations.

This incident marks the first major crash involving a U.S. commercial airliner in nearly 16 years.

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