Washington, D.C. – A devastating midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport has claimed at least 18 lives, with no survivors found so far. The crash, which occurred around 9 p.m. local time on January 29, involved an American Airlines PSA Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet and a Sikorsky H-60 military helicopter.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the regional jet had departed from Wichita, Kansas, and was on approach to the airport when it collided with the military aircraft. The crash site, located in the vicinity of the Potomac River, has prompted a large-scale emergency response. Authorities have confirmed that the jet was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members.

Search and Rescue Efforts

Washington, D.C. authorities are conducting an extensive search-and-rescue operation in response to the tragedy. Emergency responders, including the U.S. Park Police, the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department, and U.S. military personnel, have been deployed to the scene. Rescue boats and helicopters have been scouring the river, but challenging conditions have made recovery efforts difficult.

Law enforcement sources have indicated that debris from the aircraft is scattered across multiple locations, further complicating the rescue mission. A law enforcement official speaking to CNN confirmed that no survivors have been located at this stage, though search efforts continue.

Air Traffic Control and Immediate Aftermath

Audio recordings from air traffic control captured a controller asking the helicopter crew, “PAT25, do you have the CRJ in sight?” just moments before the collision. Seconds later, another pilot can be heard on the frequency asking, “Tower, did you see that?” The tower immediately diverted all incoming flights as emergency teams rushed to the crash site.

Takeoffs and landings at Reagan National Airport were temporarily halted as authorities assessed the situation and launched rescue operations.

Official Responses

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz confirmed that fatalities had occurred in the crash but did not provide further details. In a statement on X, Cruz said, “While we don’t yet know how many on board were lost, we know there are fatalities.”

President Donald Trump has been briefed on the situation, and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that federal and local law enforcement agencies are actively coordinating in the rescue efforts. Vice President J.D. Vance shared a message on social media, expressing his concerns and urging prayers for those affected. “We’re monitoring the situation, but for now, let’s hope for the best,” he wrote on X.

American Airlines’ Response

American Airlines acknowledged the incident and issued a statement on social media confirming that they were aware one of their flights may have been involved. The airline has set up a toll-free number, 800-679-8215, for individuals seeking information about loved ones on board Flight 5342. International callers can visit news.aa.com for additional contact details.

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities are continuing their efforts to recover victims and investigate the cause of the collision. The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are leading the investigation, working alongside military and local law enforcement agencies. The full extent of the tragedy remains uncertain as rescue and recovery operations proceed.