All 67 feared dead after American Airlines jet collides with army helicopter

On Jan 30, 2025

An American Airlines regional jet carrying 64 people collided mid-air with an Army Black Hawk helicopter on Wednesday evening before both aircraft crashed down into the Potomac River.

All 67 people on board both aircraft are feared dead, Kansas Senator Roger Marshall said Wednesday night. None of the helicopter’s three crew were senior Army officials, authorities said. At least 18 bodies have been recovered from the water, according to CBS News.

All flights in and out of Washington, D.C.’s Ronald Reagan National Airport have been paused until at least 11 a.m. Thursday. Video footage from the nearby Kennedy Center shows two sets of lights consistent with separate aircraft appearing to conjoin in a fireball.

“I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident which just took place at Reagan National Airport,” President Donald Trump said. “May God Bless their souls.”

American Airlines said in a statement: “If you believe you may have loved ones on board Flight 5342, call American Airlines toll-free at 800-679-8215. Those calling from outside the U.S. can visit news.aa.com for additional phone numbers. Family members in Canada, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands can call 800-679-8215 directly.”

“I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident which just took place at Reagan National Airport,” President Donald Trump said. “May God Bless their souls.”