Washington, DC – Recovery efforts are underway after a tragic midair collision between a passenger jet and a U.S. Army helicopter near Reagan National Airport. The collision resulted in both aircraft crashing into the Potomac River, leading to a temporary ground stop at the airport, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
As of Thursday morning, authorities have recovered at least 30 bodies from the crash site. D.C. Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly stated that there are no survivors from the accident, with 27 people recovered from the jet and one from the helicopter. Recovery operations will continue to reunite the bodies with their loved ones.
The collision occurred Wednesday night, with the passenger jet carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, while the military helicopter had three Army personnel onboard. The jet collided with the helicopter midair during approach to the runway, leading to the tragic incident.
Efforts to recover bodies from the Potomac River have been challenging, with dive crews facing difficulties due to the wreckage. The American Airlines flight was descending in a standard flight pattern before the crash, and the aircraft was found overturned in the river.
Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash, with the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board involved. President Donald Trump addressed the nation, expressing condolences to the victims’ families and emphasizing the need for a comprehensive investigation.
The tragedy has deeply affected communities across the region, with several victims identified, including figure skaters, coaches, and other passengers onboard the aircraft. Recovery operations are ongoing, with emergency responders working tirelessly to support the impacted families.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information related to the recovery efforts to contact 911 immediately. The FAA and NTSB are committed to determining the cause of the crash and ensuring that such a tragic incident never occurs again. The recovery process will be thorough, with authorities working to provide closure to the families of the victims.