A fatal midair collision between an American Airlines regional passenger jet and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter led to a crash into the Potomac River near Reagan Washington National Airport, forcing air traffic to grind to a halt on Wednesday night. This tragic incident has left the nation reeling and raises serious questions about air traffic safety and military coordination.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has confirmed that a “CRJ700 regional jet collided in midair with a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter while on approach to Runway 33 at Reagan Washington National Airport around 9 p.m. local time.” According to an official, the passenger jet originated from Wichita, Kansas, with 60 passengers and four crew members on board the aircraft, and three soldiers were aboard the helicopter.

American Airlines wrote on X, formerly Twitter, “We’re aware of reports that American Eagle flight 5342, operated by PSA, with service from Wichita, Kansas (ICT) to Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA), has been involved in an incident.” “We will provide information as it becomes available.”

The U.S. Army also stated that it could “confirm that the aircraft involved in tonight’s incident was an Army UH-60 helicopter out of Fort Belvoir, Virginia. We are working with local officials and will provide additional information once it becomes available.”

Emergency services have launched a massive search-and-rescue operation in the river, but the situation remains dire. The cause of the collision is under investigation, and all takeoffs and landings at Reagan Airport have been halted.

According to the Washington Post, multiple bodies had been pulled out from the water. So far, no survivors have been found. Texas Senator Ted Cruz said on social media, “We know there are fatalities,” however, he did not say how many.

Family, friends, and relatives of the passengers gathered at Reagan Washington National to seek more information.

According to the police, multiple agencies were involved in a search and rescue operation in the Potomac River. Dozens of rescue units, ambulances, police, and some ferrying boats staged along the river and raced to positions along the tarmac of Reagan Airport.

President Donald Trump said in a statement that he had been “fully briefed on the terrible accident which just took place at Reagan National Airport.”

He added: “May God bless their souls.” “Thank you for the incredible work being done by our first responders. I am monitoring the situation and will provide more details as they arise.”

As the nation mourns this devastating loss, it’s high time for a thorough investigation and real accountability. The families of the victims deserve answers, not empty promises. It’s time for the authorities to prioritize safety and ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.