Watch: Moment when American Airlines jet collided with Black Hawk helicopter

The US Army UH-60 Black Hawk, based out of Fort Belvoir, Virginia, was conducting a training flight at the time of the collision, Joint Task Force-National Capital Region spokesperson Heather Chairez told Reuters. The helicopter had three soldiers onboard, but their condition remains unknown. A US official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that no senior military officials were aboard the aircraft.

Emergency service vehicles stand near the site of the crash after American Eagle flight 5342 collided with a helicopter while approaching Reagan Washington National Airport and crashed in the Potomac River, outside Washington. (Source: Reuters)

Authorities, including multiple law enforcement and emergency response agencies, have launched a large-scale search and rescue mission in the Potomac River. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that “every available” US Coast Guard resource has been deployed to assist in the efforts. Noem said in a post on X, “We are deploying every available US Coast Guard resource for search and rescue efforts in this horrific incident at DCA. We are actively monitoring the situation & stand ready to support local responders.”

President Donald Trump released a statement acknowledging the severity of the accident. He stated, “I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident which just took place at Reagan National Airport. May God Bless their souls. Thank you for the incredible work being done by our first responders. I am monitoring the situation and will provide more details as they arise.”

A view shows Reagan Washington National Airport, as seen from Arlington, after American Eagle flight 5342 collided with a helicopter. (Source: Reuters)

Meanwhile, US Senator Ted Cruz indicated that there were fatalities from the collision, though he did not specify how many. In a post on X, he said, “I am closely monitoring the situation at DCA, and I will receive a briefing from the FAA tomorrow. While we don’t yet know how many on board were lost, we know there are fatalities. Please join Heidi and me in praying for all involved as the search and rescue is underway.”

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