Plane collision with helicopter mid-air near Washington, DC

Search and rescue operations are underway in the river after a helicopter-plane collision in mid-air. Washington DC, USA, January 29 | Photo: AFP

A tragic mid-air collision between a passenger plane and a military helicopter occurred near Washington, DC, on Wednesday night, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). 

The aircraft, operated by PSA Airlines, was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. Meanwhile, the U.S. Army’s Black Hawk helicopter had three military personnel on board.

According to reports, the collision caused the aircraft to break apart mid-air before plunging into the Potomac River. Emergency response teams, including divers, immediately launched a search-and-rescue operation in the river.

Senator Ted Cruz of Texas confirmed casualties but did not provide specific numbers. The crash occurred near Reagan Washington National Airport, prompting authorities to suspend all incoming and outgoing flights temporarily.

FAA officials stated that PSA Airlines Flight 5342 was en route from Kansas to Reagan National when the Black Hawk helicopter collided in mid-air. The American Airlines-affiliated regional carrier has a seating capacity of 65 passengers.

The Pentagon confirmed that a U.S. military helicopter was involved in the accident. Investigators are currently examining the cause of the collision.

President Donald Trump was briefed on the incident and expressed his concern over the tragedy. He praised the swift response of emergency personnel and stated that further updates would be provided as more information becomes available.

The crash remains under investigation by the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).