Passenger Jet and US Army Chopper Collide Near Washington, Fatalities Feared

A collision between a passenger jet and a US Army helicopter occurred near Washington, D.C., prompting fears of fatalities. The incident took place in a densely populated area, causing significant concern for emergency responders. Authorities are currently assessing the situation, and investigations are underway to determine the cause of the crash. The collision has raised serious concerns about air safety in the region, with ongoing efforts to rescue and identify those involved in the tragedy.

A BlackHawk helicopter carrying three US Army soldiers collided with an American Airlines regional jet near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, a US official confirmed on Wednesday. The official, who spoke anonymously, mentioned that the soldiers' conditions were unknown but emphasized that no senior officials were aboard the helicopter. Another source noted that the Army UH-60 helicopter involved was based at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. The information provided was preliminary and subject to change.

Senator Ted Cruz of Texas stated on social media that "fatalities are confirmed," although he did not specify the number. The US Federal Aviation Administration reported that a PSA Airlines regional jet collided with the Black Hawk helicopter while approaching Reagan. A U.S. Army spokesperson verified the involvement of one of its helicopters in the incident. The PSA-operated flight, American Airlines Flight 5342, had departed from Wichita, Kansas, and the jet was capable of carrying 65 passengers, according to American Airlines' website.

Authorities reported that several agencies were conducting a search and rescue mission in the Potomac River, near the airport. The airport confirmed that all flights had been suspended while emergency personnel responded to the incident. The National Transportation Safety Board indicated it was collecting more details about the crash.

There hasn’t been a fatal US passenger plane accident since February 2009, though a series of near-misses in recent years has raised significant safety concerns. American Airlines acknowledged the incident via social media, confirming its awareness of the reports about Flight 5342.

For questions or comments write to writers@bostonbrandmedia.com

Source: NDTV‍