American Airlines collision with Army helicopter is worst U.S. air disaster in years

Key Points

  • A midair collision between a military helicopter and an American Airlines regional jetliner occurred on Jan. 29, 2025, over the Potomac River in Washington, D.C.
  • The incident ended a long streak of commercial air travel safety, marking the worst air disaster on U.S. soil in over 15 years.
  • Rescue operations were complicated by high winds, with more than 30 bodies recovered from the river.
  • The American Eagle Flight 5342 was carrying 64 people when it collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter.
  • The National Transportation Safety Board will lead the investigation, which could take months to determine the cause.

Summary

On January 29, 2025, a tragic midair collision occurred over the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., involving an American Airlines regional jetliner and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter. The incident, which took place as the jet was approaching Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, resulted in the worst air disaster on U.S. soil in over 15 years, ending a long period of commercial air travel safety. The American Eagle Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members when it collided with the military helicopter at an altitude of about 300 feet. Rescue efforts were hampered by high winds, with over 30 bodies recovered from the river. The crash has prompted a comprehensive investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board, which will examine various factors including air traffic control, pilot training, and aircraft maintenance. This accident poses a significant challenge to the newly inaugurated President Donald Trump, who has yet to appoint a permanent head for the Federal Aviation Administration.

cnbc
January 30, 2025
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