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A devastating plane crash occurred near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on January 29, when a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jetliner collided midair with a Sikorsky H-60 military helicopter. The accident happened around 9 PM ET as the jet was preparing to land. Officials have confirmed that at least 18 bodies have been pulled from the Potomac River, with fears that the death toll may rise.
Details of the Midair Plane Crash
The passenger jet, operating under American Airlines’ regional carrier PSA Airlines, was arriving from Wichita, Kansas. It was carrying 64 people, including 60 passengers and four crew members. The helicopter involved in the collision was identified as an Army Black Hawk. Witnesses reported seeing sparks and flames erupt from the aircraft before it crashed.
Eyewitness Accounts of Plane Crash
Ari Schulman, who was driving along the George Washington Parkway near the airport, described the horrifying moment. “I looked up and saw a plane around 120 to 150 feet in the air. When I looked again, it was all wrong. It looked like a giant Roman candle, with sparks shooting from the head of the plane down to the tail. It only lasted two seconds before the plane was gone,” he told NBC Washington. A man whose wife was on the plane said, "I'm just hoping someone is rescuing her from the river."
This is so sad.😢
— Sean (@Xcellent78) January 30, 2025
Man waiting for his wife at Reagan National Airport, who was on board the commercial plane that crashed with Blackhawk, tells local news that she texted him shortly before the crash.
“I’m just praying that someone is pulling her out of the river right now.”💔 pic.twitter.com/yDamJCoPOd
Rescue and Recovery Efforts
Emergency responders rushed to the crash site, focusing on the Potomac River, where at least one of the aircraft had fallen. Divers and rescue teams have been working through the night. Sadly, no survivors have been found yet, and officials fear the number of casualties may increase. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation to determine the cause of this tragic plane crash.
Reactions from Authorities and Airlines
President Donald Trump acknowledged the accident, expressing his condolences. “May God bless their souls,” he stated. Trump also thanked first responders for their swift action and assured that updates would be provided as the situation develops.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom released a video statement confirming that the company is cooperating fully with the NTSB. “We want to learn everything we can about today’s events. Our cooperation is without pause,” Isom emphasized.
— Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) January 30, 2025
Concerns and Safety Measures after Plane Collison
The collision has raised serious concerns about air safety and traffic control near Washington National Airport. Investigators will examine whether factors such as pilot error, mechanical failure, or air traffic miscommunication contributed to the disaster.
The PSA Airlines CRJ700 jet had a seating capacity of 65 passengers, and the Association of Flight Attendants confirmed that two flight attendants were on board. As rescue teams continue their operations, families of the victims are anxiously waiting for further news.
Impact of the Washington Plane Crash
This tragic event highlights the importance of aviation safety measures, especially in busy air corridors. The accident has caused significant disruption, with the airport shutting down temporarily and multiple flights being diverted.
As investigations progress, the aviation industry and regulatory authorities will likely review existing safety protocols to prevent such disasters in the future. For now, the focus remains on recovery efforts and supporting the grieving families of those lost in the crash.
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