Fri Jan 31 01:31:29 IST 2025: **Midair Collision Over D.C. Kills 86; Investigation Underway**
ARLINGTON, VA – A devastating midair collision between an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport Wednesday night has resulted in the deaths of all 86 people on board, authorities confirmed Thursday. The crash, which occurred just before 9 p.m. EST, is being described as the most significant air disaster in the U.S. in at least 15 years.
Rescue crews spent the night and Thursday morning recovering bodies from the frigid waters of the Potomac River where debris from both aircraft fell. Twenty-eight bodies had been recovered by Thursday morning, according to officials. The American Airlines flight, operated by PSA Airlines, carried 64 passengers and four crew members, including members of the U.S. Figure Skating team, several Russian figure skaters, coaches, and family members. The Black Hawk helicopter was carrying three experienced Army crew members on a training exercise.
President Trump, speaking at a White House press briefing, offered a moment of silence before speculating on potential causes, unsubstantiated claims which included blaming diversity initiatives at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for compromising safety standards. He also questioned the air traffic controller’s actions and the helicopter pilot’s awareness of their surroundings. The President announced the immediate appointment of Christopher Rocheleau as acting FAA commissioner, citing his extensive experience. The FAA has been without a permanent leader since the previous head resigned on Inauguration Day.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and American Airlines are investigating the cause of the collision. Early reports indicate the jet, approaching the airport from the south, collided with the helicopter traveling from north to south at low altitude. Audio recordings from air traffic control, which have not yet been publicly released, may offer further insight.
The crash site presented significant challenges for first responders, with icy, murky water and limited visibility hindering recovery efforts. A ground stop at Reagan National Airport was lifted Thursday morning after safety checks were completed.
U.S. Figure Skating released a statement expressing devastation at the loss of its team members. Among those confirmed dead are former Russian world champions Vadim Naumov and Evgenia Shishkova.
The Pentagon withheld the names of the Black Hawk crew members pending notification of next of kin. The investigation into the collision is ongoing, and a conclusive determination of the cause is expected to take considerable time.
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