| Officials confirm no survivors in tragic mid-air collision. |
A devastating mid-air collision involving an American Airlines jet and a military helicopter has resulted in a tragic loss of life, with authorities now confirming that no survivors have been found.
The incident occurred on the evening of 29 January when American Airlines flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, was preparing to land at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The aircraft, which was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, was struck mid-air by a Sikorsky H-60 military helicopter carrying three soldiers. The collision took place at approximately 9:00 pm local time.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of horror as both aircraft plummeted into the Potomac River. Reports indicate that the passenger plane suffered significant structural damage, breaking apart upon impact with the water. Search and rescue teams, including boats and helicopters, were immediately deployed to the crash site to assist in recovery efforts.
So far, the bodies of 30 passengers from the American Airlines flight, along with one of the soldiers aboard the helicopter, have been retrieved from the wreckage. Emergency response teams continue their search for the remaining victims, though hope for any survivors has now faded.
During a press conference on Thursday, DC Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly provided an update on the situation. “We are now at a point where we’re switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation. At this stage, we do not believe there are any survivors from this accident,” he stated.
Investigators are working to determine the cause of the crash, with early indications suggesting a possible failure in air traffic communication. Authorities are also examining whether weather conditions may have played a role in the collision.
The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the aviation community, prompting renewed discussions about air traffic safety measures. Both American Airlines and the US military have pledged full cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
Families of those on board are being supported by crisis teams as they await further information. The airline has expressed its condolences, stating that their thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones during this difficult time.
Ronald Reagan National Airport Image Credit: Mariordo Mario Roberto Duran Ortiz CC-BY-SA-3.0
