American Airlines Flight 5342 collided with a U.S. Army helicopter near Reagan National Airport, leading to a tragic crash in the Potomac River.
A devastating midair collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter occurred on January 29, 2025, over the Potomac River near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The crash, which happened during a routine training mission and passenger flight descent, has raised urgent questions about airspace safety.
At approximately 8:47 PM EST, the Bombardier CRJ-701ER, operated by American Eagle, was descending toward Reagan National Airport with 64 passengers and four crew members onboard. Simultaneously, the Army helicopter carried three soldiers during a training exercise. Eyewitnesses described a fiery explosion as the aircraft collided midair, sending debris plunging into the icy Potomac River.
Temperatures hovering near 35°F (2°C) hampered rescue operations. Maryland State Police divers joined local emergency teams in a frantic search for survivors. Initial reports confirmed fatalities, though official numbers remain undisclosed.
Reagan National Airport halted all flights immediately after the crash. Incoming planes diverted to Dulles International and Baltimore-Washington International airports. Surveillance footage captured the collision, showing two sets of lights merging into a fireball before vanishing.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are leading investigations. Authorities will analyze air traffic control records, flight transponder data, and radar logs to determine the cause. Preliminary reports suggest possible communication lapses, though officials emphasize the need for thorough analysis.
Virginia Representative Don Beyer expressed grief, stating, “Our hearts break for the victims’ families. We must allow investigators to work without speculation.” American Airlines activated a family assistance hotline, while the Army confirmed next-of-kin notifications for its personnel.
This marks American Airlines’ first fatal accident since 2001 and the deadliest U.S. aviation incident in over a decade. The crash reignites debates about shared airspace between military and civilian aircraft, particularly near busy hubs like Reagan National.