Quantcast

Collision near Washington involves American Airlines jet and military helicopter

Collision near Washington involves American Airlines jet and military helicopter
Research
Webp d8rgjpda23lr7ayzs7obt2du2d6q
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.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

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.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

Alaska Airlines has announced a significant expansion of its route network for 2026, with plans to introduce service to two new cities and launch 13 new or returning routes.

Oct 25, 2025

Delta Air Lines will introduce new in-flight menu options created by celebrity chef José Andrés starting November 4.

Oct 25, 2025

The Blue Sky partnership between United Airlines and JetBlue launched today, allowing members of both airlines’ loyalty programs to earn and redeem points across the two carriers.

Oct 25, 2025

Air Canada is set to expand its presence at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) by introducing four new nonstop routes to the United States in 2026.

Oct 25, 2025

United Airlines has announced it will add 10 new destinations from its Chicago O'Hare International Airport hub starting next year.

Oct 25, 2025

The partnership between United Airlines and JetBlue, known as Blue Sky, has officially launched.

Oct 25, 2025