Breaking News: Plane and Helicopter Collide Over Potomac River Near Reagan National Airport
Washington, D.C. – January 29, 2025 – A catastrophic mid-air collision occurred today between a PSA Airlines CRJ-700 regional jet, operating as American Eagle Flight 5342, and a U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, call sign PAT25, near the approach end of runway 33 at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).
Both aircraft plunged into the Potomac River, prompting an immediate and massive emergency response. Search and rescue (SAR) operations are ongoing, but initial reports confirm multiple fatalities. The exact number of casualties and survivors has yet to be determined.
Details of the Collision
The CRJ-700, operated by PSA Airlines under the American Eagle banner, was on its approach to Reagan National Airport at the time of the collision.
The UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, known for its distinctive gold top paint scheme, is part of the U.S. Army’s VIP transport fleet, typically used for high-ranking military officers or government officials.
The crash occurred in the critical low-altitude phase, either during the jet’s final approach or the helicopter’s departure or maneuvering, near the end of runway 33.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing a fiery collision followed by both aircraft spiraling into the water. Debris has been scattered across the crash site in the Potomac River.
Who Was on Board the Helicopter?
The UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, call sign PAT25, is part of a specialized U.S. Army fleet used for VIP transport. This raises the question: who was aboard the helicopter? Was it carrying a high-ranking military officer, a government official, or other personnel on a sensitive mission? The identities of those aboard remain unknown as recovery efforts continue.
Response and Investigation
The FAA has issued a ground stop at Reagan National Airport, suspending all flights until further notice, as emergency teams work to secure the area and recover survivors, if possible. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation, with assistance from the FAA and military authorities.
Officials are expected to examine:
Air traffic control communications to determine if miscommunication played a role.
Potential mechanical failures in either aircraft.
Flight paths and protocols for military and civilian aircraft operating in close proximity to the airport.
Significance of the Incident
This tragic event has not only caused significant loss of life but has also raised serious questions about the coordination between civilian and military aircraft in the heavily trafficked Washington, D.C., airspace. The fact that PAT25, a helicopter used for VIP transport, was involved intensifies scrutiny. Who was in that helicopter, and what mission were they on?
Developing Story
This devastating collision has shaken the nation’s capital, with implications for aviation safety and national security. More updates, including the identities of those involved and preliminary findings from the NTSB, are expected in the coming hours.
Stay tuned as more information becomes available. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.