A commercial aircraft carrying 64 passengers and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter collided in midair near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Wednesday night, prompting a massive search and rescue operation in the Potomac River.
The accident occurred just before 9 p.m. ET as the Bombardier CRJ-700, operated by PSA Airlines for American Airlines, was preparing to land.
The Pentagon confirmed that the Black Hawk, carrying three soldiers from Fort Belvoir, Virginia, was involved in the crash.
A webcam at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts captured the moment of impact, showing a bright explosion.
Radar data suggests the passenger jet, American Eagle Flight 5342, plunged into the river.
DC Fire and EMS confirmed a small aircraft had crashed into the Potomac, with multiple agencies conducting search and rescue efforts.
President Trump issued a statement expressing condolences and commending first responders.
All flights at Reagan Airport have been suspended.
