A midair collision near Washington, D.C., on January 29, 2025, between a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines passenger jet has led to a major rescue operation. The crash, which occurred near Reagan National Airport, involved American Airlines Flight 5342, a Bombardier CRJ700, with 64 people on board, and three crew members in the Black Hawk. The crash sparked an explosion over the Potomac River, and authorities are focused on rescuing survivors despite freezing temperatures and hazardous conditions.
Eyewitnesses described seeing the plane bank sharply before it exploded. The crash forced the closure of Reagan National Airport and the diversion of flights to Dulles International. Search efforts are complicated by strong currents, floating ice, and freezing temperatures, with nearly 300 responders working to find survivors.
The incident, the deadliest U.S. aviation accident since 2009, has left families anxiously waiting for news. Among the passengers were several prominent U.S. figure skaters, deepening the tragedy for the community. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the crash.
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