Plane crash: American Airlines Flight 5342 Collides with Black Hawk Helicopter Near Washington, D.C.

A tragic mid-air collision occurred near Washington, D.C., on the evening of January 29, 2025, involving American Eagle Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter. Both aircraft went down in the Potomac River, resulting in multiple fatalities and triggering a large-scale rescue operation.

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Details of the Aircraft Involved

American Eagle Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, was a Bombardier CRJ-700 regional jet on a scheduled flight from Wichita, Kansas (ICT), to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). The aircraft had 60 passengers and four crew members on board.

The second aircraft involved was a U.S. Army Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, carrying three military personnel on a routine training mission.

Sequence of Events

At approximately 8:48 p.m. EST, Flight 5342 was descending toward Reagan National Airport when it collided with the Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River. The impact caused both aircraft to break apart and plunge into the water.

According to initial reports, air traffic controllers had been in communication with both aircraft moments before the crash. The Black Hawk crew acknowledged seeing the CRJ-700 and received instructions to pass behind it. However, within seconds, the two aircraft collided.

Casualties and Rescue Operations

Emergency response teams rushed to the scene, but frigid waters and darkness made rescue efforts challenging. At least 18 fatalities have been confirmed, with divers continuing the search for potential survivors. Several passengers and military personnel were recovered and transported to area hospitals.

Investigation Underway

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are leading the investigation into what led to this DCA plane crash. Investigators will review air traffic control communications, radar data, and flight recorder information from both aircraft.

In a statement, American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed deep sorrow over the incident, pledging full cooperation with authorities and support for the victims’ families.

Historical Context

The Potomac River has been the site of previous aviation tragedies, most notably Air Florida Flight 90, which crashed in 1982 after striking the 14th Street Bridge during takeoff from Reagan National Airport, killing 78 people.

What’s Next?

Authorities continue their search-and-rescue efforts while also working to recover and analyze flight data. American Airlines, PSA Airlines, and military officials are closely monitoring the situation.

This Washington, D.C. plane crash raises concerns about airspace safety around one of the nation’s busiest airports, leading to renewed calls for stricter air traffic control measures when coordinating civilian and military flights.

More updates will follow as the investigation progresses.