U.S.Military Helicopter Collides:In a tragic aviation accident, a passenger plane carrying 60 passengers and four crew members collided with a military helicopter near Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night. Following the collision, a large-scale rescue operation was launched in the nearby Potomac River. Reports confirm that 18 bodies have been recovered so far, while search efforts continue.
Rescue Operation Underway in Potomac River
Authorities, including the U.S. Park Police, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department, and the U.S. Army, have deployed multiple emergency units to conduct search and rescue operations. Fireboats and helicopters are scanning the crash site, looking for survivors in the river.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the collision occurred around 9 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST). The passenger aircraft, identified as an American Airlines regional jet traveling from Wichita, Kansas, was in the process of landing when it struck a military Black Hawk helicopter that had taken off for a training mission.
Eyewitness Accounts and Air Traffic Communication
Audio recordings from the air traffic control tower have surfaced, in which a controller is heard asking the helicopter pilot if they had visual contact with the passenger jet CRJ (Canadair Regional Jet), identified as flight PAT25.
Despite attempts to prevent the tragedy, the collision resulted in both aircraft crashing, with debris scattered into the Potomac River.
Emergency Response and Official Statements
President Donald Trump’s Reaction
Former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed deep concern over the accident, stating that he had been briefed on the “horrific crash” and that rescue efforts were being prioritized.
U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security’s Statement
The U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security assured the public that all available resources, including the Coast Guard, were being utilized for rescue and relief efforts.
American Airlines’ Response
American Airlines acknowledged the incident in a social media post, confirming that one of their aircraft was involved in the accident. The airline emphasized that they were coordinating with authorities to support the ongoing investigations and rescue operations.
Historical Parallels: 1982 Air Florida Tragedy
This incident brings back painful memories of the January 13, 1982, Air Florida crash, where a plane crashed into the Potomac River, killing 78 people due to bad weather conditions. The latest accident, occurring in the same region, has raised concerns about aviation safety measures.
Investigation and Flight Operations Halted
Following the crash, flight operations at Ronald Reagan National Airport were suspended. The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched a full investigation into the cause of the collision, with preliminary findings expected in the coming days.
Conclusion
U.S.Military Helicopter Collides : As search and rescue operations continue, officials are working tirelessly to account for missing passengers and crew members. The incident has sparked discussions about aviation safety protocols, particularly in areas where civilian and military air traffic intersect.
For further updates on this developing story, stay tuned.
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