Tragedy in the Skies: Midair Collision Near Reagan National Airport Claims Multiple Lives

A midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) on Wednesday night left no survivors, as an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter crashed into the Potomac River. The tragic accident, which occurred around 9 p.m., has sparked a large-scale recovery effort and an urgent federal investigation.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), American Airlines Flight 5342 was making its final approach to Reagan National when it collided with the Black Hawk helicopter. Air traffic control recordings indicate that the helicopter pilot had visual confirmation of the jet just moments before impact. The two aircraft struck at approximately 300 feet in altitude, sending wreckage and passengers into the frigid waters below.
By Thursday morning, D.C. Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly confirmed the worst. “We have transitioned from a rescue to a recovery operation,” Donnelly stated. So far, at least 28 bodies have been recovered from the river, with search teams continuing to battle cold temperatures and murky water conditions.
The crash site, located near the 14th Street Bridge, has been swarmed by first responders, with over 300 personnel working to locate victims and debris. Officials say the Potomac’s depth and winter conditions are complicating the effort.
🚨BREAKING: It has been officially announced that there are no survivors in the DC plane crash.
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) January 30, 2025
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has dispatched a team of investigators to determine the cause of the crash. With both military and commercial aircraft involved, authorities are reviewing air traffic control logs, pilot communications, and flight data to piece together how this tragedy unfolded in such a tightly regulated airspace.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser called the incident a “devastating loss,” expressing condolences to the families of those onboard. “We stand with the loved ones of the victims and will ensure a full investigation is conducted,” Bowser said.
American Airlines has activated a crisis response team and set up a hotline for relatives seeking information on Flight 5342 passengers: 1-800-679-8215.
As authorities work through the aftermath, questions remain about how two aircraft came into such dangerous proximity near one of the nation’s busiest airports. The NTSB’s findings are expected to take months, but for now, the focus is on recovery and supporting the families of those lost.
Bayou Beat News will continue to provide updates as this story unfolds.