American Airlines jet collides with Army helicopter near DC; 28 bodies recovered, no survivors expected, investigation underway.
An American Airlines passenger jet collided with a US Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington, DC.
Rescue crews worked through the night, recovering 28 bodies from the Potomac River.
The Washington Fire Department declared a shift from rescue to recovery operations, indicating no survivors are expected.
The helicopter’s crew of three has also been presumed lost.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that the incident could have been preventable and that an investigation is underway to determine the cause.
Preliminary assessments suggest that the flight paths of both the civilian jet and military helicopter were standard.
US officials have emphasized the need to ensure the safety of American airspace.
The City of Wichita, where the flight originated, expressed condolences. It is reported that figure skaters, including former world champions from Russia, were on board.
A temporary pause on helicopter flights by the involved Army unit has been initiated.
Community support services were set up to aid families awaiting news about their loved ones at Wichita Airport.
American Airlines is cooperating with the National Transportation Safety Board for the investigation.
The main runway at Reagan National Airport is expected to reopen later today.
Authorities highlighted the need to address airspace congestion, particularly in the DC area, where civilian and military aircraft share the skies.
