Passenger Plane Hits Army Black Hawk Chopper And Crashes In The Potomac

President Trump Reacts to Plane Crash Near Reagan National Airport

Washington, D.C. – President Donald Trump has issued a statement expressing his condolences and offering his support following a tragic plane crash near Washington D.C.’s Reagan National Airport. The incident, which involved a mid-air collision between an American Airlines flight and a U.S. Army Blackhawk helicopter, has led to a major search and rescue operation on the Potomac River.

In a statement released by the White House late this evening, Trump said, “I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident which just took place at Reagan National Airport. May God bless their souls. Thank you for the incredible work being done by our first responders. I am monitoring the situation.”

A Devastating Crash

The crash occurred shortly before 9 p.m. local time when American Airlines Flight 5342, a PSA Airlines regional jet traveling from Wichita, Kansas, collided mid-air with a Sikorsky H-60 Blackhawk helicopter. The American Airlines flight, which had 60 passengers and four crew members on board, was attempting to land at Reagan National Airport when the collision took place near the Potomac River.

Early reports from the scene suggest that the crash may have been caused by a mid-air explosion. Authorities have confirmed that multiple bodies have been recovered from the river, and search efforts are continuing. Local NBC affiliate WBAL has reported that at least two bodies have been pulled from the water, while several survivors have been found alive.

Republican Senator Ted Cruz from Texas, who was briefed on the situation, confirmed the grim news, warning that “there are fatalities” and urging the public to keep those affected in their thoughts.

A Historical Echo

The crash has drawn comparisons to a similar tragedy that occurred 42 years ago, when an Air Florida Boeing 737 crashed into the icy Potomac River on January 13, 1982. That crash claimed 78 lives, including four drivers whose vehicles were struck by the plane as it descended onto the 14th Street Bridge. In both incidents, heavy traffic hampered first responders’ ability to quickly reach the crash site.

The 1982 Air Florida disaster, caused by poor weather conditions, occurred just two miles from the White House. Many Washingtonians still recall the harrowing images of motorists helplessly watching as rescue efforts unfolded in freezing temperatures.

Ongoing Search and Rescue Operation

Emergency services have responded in full force to the scene. Law enforcement, fire crews, and paramedics are working along the riverbank, with police and ambulance lights illuminating the shoreline. The search and rescue operation is ongoing as authorities continue to search the waters for survivors and victims.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have both launched investigations into the incident. The FAA confirmed that the crash involved American Airlines Flight 5342 and a US Army Blackhawk helicopter, with sources stating that three U.S. Army soldiers were aboard the Blackhawk at the time of the collision. The Army has yet to confirm the identities or conditions of those onboard the helicopter.

Immediate Reactions and Investigation

Local and federal authorities are working to gather more details as the investigation progresses. The FAA and NTSB are expected to conduct a thorough examination of both aircraft and the circumstances surrounding the crash. In addition, the U.S. Army has promised to fully cooperate with investigators to determine the cause of the collision.

As the investigation unfolds, the public has been urged to stay informed through official channels. The President’s statement and ongoing updates from the authorities have emphasized the importance of supporting the victims, their families, and the emergency personnel involved in the rescue efforts.

Looking Ahead

In the aftermath of the crash, the community has come together in support of those affected. A vigil for the victims is being planned, with local leaders and public figures offering their prayers and condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.

President Trump’s statement echoes a sentiment shared by many across the country: a deep sense of sorrow for the victims, gratitude for first responders, and a commitment to fully understanding the cause of the tragedy.

As search operations continue, the city of Washington and the nation as a whole brace for further developments in what is already being described as a devastating incident.

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