Military helicopter collides with regional jet near Reagan National Airport, FAA says

Published 2 months ago• 2 minute read

The plane involved is American Airlines flight 5342, which originated from Wichita, Kansas, according to the FAA. (WJLA/AP)

Fatalities have been reported after a Black Hawk military helicopter collided with a regional jet that was approaching Runway 33 at Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia, authorities said Wednesday night.

A massive search and rescue operation, including divers, is underway in the Potomac River. While The Associated Press has reported multiple fatalities, the exact number remains unclear.

Sen. Roger Marshall of Kansas alluded to a grim situation during an early Thursday morning press conference.

"It's really hard when you lose, you know, probably over 60 Kansans simultaneously," Marshall said. "And I don't want to forget the pilots and the flight attendants who were doing their jobs and the military personnel... all those lives are so valuable."

The plane involved is American Eagle Flight 5342, which originated from Wichita, Kansas. American Airlines CEO Robert Isom said 60 passengers and four crew members were on the plane.

"We've set up a special helpline friends and family can call at 1-800-679-8215... if you believe you've had friends or family on board American Eagle flight 5342," Isom said.

Isom added that the aircraft was operated by PSA Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group.

Meanwhile, the U.S. military said the Army helicopter, based in Virginia, was on a training flight with three people on board when the collision occurred.

"We can confirm that the aircraft involved in tonight’s incident was an Army UH-60 helicopter from Bravo Company, 12th Aviation Battalion, out of Davison Army Airfield, Fort Belvoir," said Joint Task Force-National Capital Region media chief Heather Chairez.

In response to the incident, Reagan National Airport has issued a ground stop for all arriving and departing flights.

President Donald Trump and his administration are monitoring the situation.

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

President Trump released another statement via Truth Social early Thursday morning.