American Airlines jet and military helicopter crashes mid-air into Potomac River

A tragic mid-air collision between an American Airlines commercial jet and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter has left emergency crews scrambling to search for survivors in the icy waters of the Potomac River.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the incident, which occurred around 9:00 PM local time (02:00 GMT) on approach to Reagan Washington National Airport.

The American Airlines flight, operated by PSA Airlines, was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. It had been en route from Wichita, Kansas, and was seconds away from landing when the collision happened. The US Army helicopter, which had three soldiers on board, was reportedly on a training mission from Fort Belvoir, Virginia.

Police divers and boats have been deployed to search the Potomac River for survivors, though freezing temperatures have complicated rescue efforts. Authorities have not yet confirmed the number of casualties, but CBS News, a BBC partner, reported that 18 bodies have been recovered so far

US President Donald Trump described the incident as a “terrible accident” and expressed gratitude to emergency responders for their swift action. Defence Secretary Pete Hegesth also called the event “absolutely tragic” and confirmed that search and rescue operations are ongoing.

Multiple agencies, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and the FBI, have launched investigations into the crash. American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed his “deep sorrow” in a video statement posted on the airline’s website.

Isom confirmed details of the flight and passengers, adding that the airline is coordinating with local, state, and federal authorities. “Anything we can do, we are doing,” he said, noting that a team from American Airlines has been dispatched to Washington, DC, and that he will also be traveling to the scene.

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser and other public officials are expected to hold a press briefing at 12:30 AM EST (05:30 GMT) to provide updates on the crash. Meanwhile, newly confirmed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has deployed the US Coast Guard to assist with search and rescue efforts.

The collision has sent shockwaves across the nation, with many awaiting further details on the fate of those on board both aircraft. The Potomac River, which winds through the heart of Washington, DC, has become the focal point of a grim recovery operation as authorities work tirelessly to account for all passengers and crew.