Washington, DC — On the evening of January 29, a tragic mid-air collision occurred between American Airlines Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, and a US Army Blackhawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport in Washington, DC. The plane, a Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet, was attempting to land when it collided with the helicopter, causing both aircraft to crash into the icy waters of the Potomac River. Emergency responders immediately launched a large-scale search and rescue operation.
Authorities have confirmed multiple fatalities, but the exact number remains unclear, and no survivors have been recovered as of Thursday morning. The search efforts, involving hundreds of first responders, continue in treacherous conditions, with water temperatures around 35°F (1.6°C), increasing the risk of hypothermia for anyone submerged for extended periods.
American Airlines confirmed that there were 60 passengers and 4 crew members aboard Flight 5342. The Blackhawk helicopter was carrying 3 Army personnel. The collision occurred at approximately 8:53 p.m. local time, just minutes before the plane was due to land at Reagan National Airport.
The helicopter was reportedly on a training mission when it collided with the aircraft. Air traffic control audio recorded just before the crash shows the helicopter was instructed to pass behind the plane. However, the collision occurred moments later. A video of the crash, filmed by EarthCam, showed a fiery explosion following the collision.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash.
Statement from American Airlines CEO:
American Airlines CEO Robert Eim issued a statement expressing deep sorrow for the incident:
“First and most importantly, I want to express our deep sorrow about these 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. I know that there are many questions, and at this early stage, I am not able to answer all of them, but I do want to share the information I have at this time.”
Eim continued, “American Eagle Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, was a CRJ700 aircraft traveling from Wichita, Kansas to Washington Reagan National Airport. It appears to have collided with a military aircraft on approach. Flight 5342 was under the command of four crew members and carried 60 passengers for a total of 64 people onboard.”
“We are actively working with local, state, and federal authorities on emergency response efforts, and the American Airlines care team has been activated to assist our passengers and their families. We are cooperating fully with the National Transportation Safety Board in its investigation, and we will continue to provide all the information we can. Our cooperation is without pause, and we want to learn everything we can about today’s events. That work will take time, but anything we can do now, we are doing. Right now, that means focusing on taking care of all passengers and crew involved as well as their families.”
Eim also noted that American Airlines had set up a helpline for concerned family members: 1-800-679-8215. He urged patience as the company works to provide accurate information as quickly as possible.
President’s Statement and Follow-Up
President Donald Trump also offered his condolences and praised first responders. “May God bless their souls,” he said in a statement. He added that he was closely monitoring the situation and would provide more details as they became available.
As the search and rescue operation continues, authorities have warned that the challenging conditions in the Potomac River may cause the operation to extend over several days.
