Thu Jan 30 05:12:43 UTC 2025: ## Mid-Air Collision Over Potomac River Leaves Dozens Feared Dead
**Washington D.C. –** A catastrophic mid-air collision between a passenger plane and a military helicopter over the Potomac River last night has resulted in a major emergency response and fears of significant casualties. The incident, which occurred around 9:00 pm local time (0200 GMT), involved American Eagle Flight 5342, a Bombardier regional jet operated by PSA Airlines, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members en route from Wichita, Kansas to Washington, D.C., and a Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter carrying three soldiers.
Witnesses reported a bright flash in the night sky as both aircraft crashed into the river. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the mid-air collision, and immediately grounded all flights at Ronald Reagan National Airport. Emergency responders, hampered by darkness and freezing temperatures, launched a large-scale rescue operation involving fireboats, dozens of fire trucks, and multiple agencies. Police have begun recovering bodies from the Potomac River, though an official casualty count has yet to be released.
American Airlines released a statement expressing concern for the passengers and crew and offering a toll-free helpline (800-679-8215) for those seeking information about loved ones on board. International contact information is available at news.aa.com. Officials confirmed that no senior military personnel were aboard the helicopter.
President Trump issued a statement acknowledging the accident, offering condolences, and praising the first responders. He stated he is monitoring the situation and will provide further updates as they become available. The investigation into the cause of the collision is expected to be extensive.
First Piper 