Tragedy Strikes Near Reagan National Airport

Authorities have confirmed the retrieval of 18 bodies following a midair crash between a commercial airliner and a military helicopter over the Potomac River, close to Reagan Washington National Airport.

Flight Path and Passenger Manifest

FAA identified the passenger jet as a Bombardier CRJ700, operating as Flight 5342 for American Airlines under PSA Airlines. Departing from Wichita, Kansas, the aircraft had 64 passengers and four crew members.

A U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, carrying three military personnel, was also involved in the collision.

Search and Investigation Underway

Emergency teams were dispatched to the scene, with multiple agencies participating in the recovery mission. The NTSB has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash.