An American Airlines regional passenger plane reportedly carrying 64 people collided with a helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, Jan. 29.
The FAA said in a statement that the incident involved a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet and a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter. CNN reported that it was an Army Black Hawk helicopter, citing two U.S. defense officials. The New York Times also reported it was an Army Black Hawk helicopter, citing an Army official.
The collision occurred as they were approaching Runway 33 around 9 p.m. local time.
“PSA was operating as Flight 5342 for American Airlines. It departed from Wichita, Kansas. The FAA and NTSB will investigate. The NTSB will lead the investigation,” the statement said.
American Airlines confirmed the news in a statement on X.
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“We’re aware of reports that American Eagle flight 5342, operated by PSA, with service from Wichita, Kansas (ICT) to Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA) has been involved in an incident. We will provide information as it becomes available,” the statement read.
Reagan National Airport said in its own statement on X that all “all takeoffs and landings have been halted at DCA.”
“Emergency personnel are responding to an aircraft incident on the airfield. The terminal remains open. Will update,” the statement added.
The Metropolitan Police Department said in a statement that multiple agencies are currently coordinating a search and rescue operation in the Potomac River and “there is no confirmed information on casualties at this time.” DC Fire and EMS added that there are fireboats on the scene.
While speaking to Fox News, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump has been briefed on the situation.
Vice President J.D. Vance asked for prayers on X.
“Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan airport this evening. We’re monitoring the situation, but for now let’s hope for the best,” he wrote.
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said that his department is “actively monitoring” the situation.
This story is developing.
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