Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport has resumed flights as of 11 AM EST this morning. Some flights have been delayed or canceled; however, have clients check with their airline for specific information.
A tragic midair collision between an American Eagle regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter resulted in both aircraft crashing into the Potomac River near Reagan Washington National Airport late last night. Authorities have confirmed there are no survivors. This caused flight to be delayed and diverted throughout the evening.
Described as the deadliest crash on U.S. soil in more than 20 years, the American Eagle flight—operated by PSA Airlines—was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, D.C., when it collided with the military helicopter carrying three personnel. The crash occurred around 9 p.m. as both aircraft were making their approach to Reagan National Airport.
Collision Remains Unknown
Officials stated that both the jet and helicopter were on standard landing trajectories, but the cause of the collision remains unknown. Investigators are working to recover the flight data recorders, or “black boxes,” which will provide further insight into the events leading up to the crash.
As of this morning, 28 bodies had been recovered from the wreckage—27 from the jet and one from the helicopter. The airport temporarily closed following the incident and is expected to reopen at 11 a.m., though travelers are advised to check with their airlines for updates.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isam addressed the tragedy during a press conference, stating, “We do not know why the military aircraft entered the path of the passenger jet.”
Kansas Senator Roger Marshall also spoke, reflecting on the devastating loss: “Losing over 60 Kansans at once is unimaginable. When one life is lost, it’s a tragedy—when so many perish, the sorrow is beyond words.”
Among those on board were U.S. figure skaters, coaches and family members returning from events in Wichita, as well as two internationally renowned figure skaters from Russia.
Preliminary reports indicate that the helicopter crew was aware of the passenger jet’s presence, based on recorded radio communications with air traffic control.
(Sources: Reuters, CNN, Associated Press)
