FAA Confirms Flight Disruptions Following Crash
Reagan National Airport remains under a daylong ground stop following a midair collision between a PSA Airlines commercial jet and a US Army Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk helicopter late Wednesday evening. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the incident occurred around 9 p.m. as the aircraft was approaching Runway 33 at Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia.
Details of the Collision
The PSA Airlines CRJ700 series jet, operating as an American Airlines regional flight, had departed Wichita, Kansas, at approximately 5:20 p.m. The plane was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, according to an official FAA statement.
Meanwhile, the US Army Black Hawk helicopter was conducting a routine training flight when the collision occurred. The helicopter had three Army soldiers on board at the time of impact.
Visual Footage and Emergency Response
Camera Footage Captures Explosion
Observation camera footage from near the Kennedy Center captured what appeared to be an explosion, consistent with the collision of two aircraft in midair. The video shows two distinct sets of lights before they suddenly disappear in a fiery burst.
Multi-Agency Emergency Response Underway
Emergency responders from across the Washington, D.C. region were quickly dispatched to the scene:
- Fireboats were deployed to the Potomac River to assist with rescue efforts.
- Metropolitan Police Department helicopters were brought in to aid in the search.
- Emergency crews from Fairfax and Montgomery counties arrived for reinforcements.
WTOP reporter Mike Murillo, reporting from Daingerfield Island, described an overwhelming response:
“I’ve done this for 20 years—I have not seen this many first responders surrounding the entire Potomac River. It’s lit up on the D.C. side. They’re calling in every resource they have here tonight.”
Current Status and Investigation
Authorities have yet to confirm the exact number of casualties or injuries resulting from the crash. The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are leading a full investigation to determine the cause of the collision.
Travel Advisory for Passengers
With Reagan National Airport under a full ground stop, travelers are advised to check with American Airlines and other carriers for alternative flight arrangements. Flight delays and cancellations are expected to persist while recovery and investigation efforts continue.
Key Takeaways
- Daylong ground stop at Reagan National Airport after a midair collision.
- PSA Airlines flight with 60 passengers and 4 crew members collided with a US Army Black Hawk helicopter.
- Emergency response includes fireboats, helicopters, and multi-agency personnel.
- Passengers should check for flight updates due to ongoing disruptions.
For further updates, travelers and the public are encouraged to visit the FAA and Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority websites.
Source CNN.COM