A tragic aviation accident occurred near Reagan Washington National Airport when a passenger plane collided with a military helicopter mid-air. The impact caused the plane to break into two and crash into the Potomac River, while the helicopter overturned. Authorities fear no survivors, as rescue efforts are underway in extreme weather conditions.

Horrific Mid-Air Collision

Late Wednesday night, a passenger plane approaching Reagan Washington National Airport collided with a United States military Black Hawk helicopter. The plane operated by PSA Airlines for American Airlines was on a domestic route from Wichita, Kansas. The helicopter was flying from Fort Belvoir, Virginia.

Seconds before landing the two aircraft made contact, resulting in a catastrophic accident. The passenger plane carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, split apart and plunged into the icy Potomac River. The military helicopter with four soldiers on board, also crashed into the river.

Rescue Operations Face Extreme Conditions

Authorities have confirmed that 19 bodies have been recovered so far. However the rescue mission is facing severe challenges due to freezing temperatures. The Potomac River is nearing its freezing point making underwater operations highly difficult. Specialised divers and advanced recovery equipment have been deployed to search for possible survivors.

Eyewitness Accounts & Official Statements

Local residents reported hearing a loud explosion before spotting debris falling into the river. The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that PSA Airlines Flight 5342 was en route to Reagan Airport when it collided with the military’s Black Hawk Sikorsky H-60 helicopter. The FBI has joined the investigation to determine the cause of the accident.

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As a precaution all incoming flights to Reagan Washington National Airport have been diverted and Washington DC’s metro services will remain operational late into the night. Authorities are now investigating the circumstances that led to this devastating crash.