Four individuals were rescued from the Potomac River after an American Airlines regional flight collided with a helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on January 29, 2025. Initial reports indicated there were fatalities, but search and rescue operations were still ongoing, and authorities had not confirmed any casualties at that time.
The aircraft involved in the incident was a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700, with 60 passengers and four crew members onboard. The other vehicle was a Sikorsky H-60, commonly known as an Army Black Hawk helicopter, which had three crew members. Multiple agencies, including the Metropolitan Police Department, are coordinating the rescue and recovery efforts.
Emergency services have been active at the scene, deploying fireboats to assist. The four individuals pulled from the river were taken to a nearby hospital, as confirmed by local news outlets.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the collision happened while both aircraft were approaching Runway 33 around 9 p.m. local time. American Airlines acknowledged the incident and promised to provide updates as more information became available.
In response to the event, Maryland Governor Wes Moore stated that the state and local authorities were engaged in operations, with raised emergency statuses and divers deployed. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly also reached out to express her concern for those affected.
President Donald Trump issued a statement expressing his sorrow and respect for first responders working in the aftermath of the crash, assuring that he is monitoring the situation closely. Vice President J.D. Vance also encouraged prayers for everyone involved.
This tragic incident highlights the challenges of air travel and the importance of prompt responses from emergency services in such situations.
