American Airlines Flight Collides with Black Hawk Helicopter Near D.C.

A midair collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter occurred near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Wednesday night, prompting an extensive emergency response.

The crash happened around 9 p.m. as the Bombardier CRJ-700 jet, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, approached the airport.

The Black Hawk had three crew members onboard.

Emergency teams are conducting search-and-rescue operations in the Potomac River, where debris reportedly fell.

No fatalities have been confirmed, but fears of casualties remain high. Witnesses reported a fireball in the sky at the time of impact.

The FAA and NTSB are investigating the incident, and all flights at Reagan National have been suspended.

President Trump and Vice President Vance have expressed concern and thanked first responders.

Further updates are expected as the investigation continues.