Rescue Teams Continue Search for Victims
Authorities have lost hope of finding survivors after a devastating collision between a passenger plane and a military helicopter in Washington. Fire Chief John Donnelly confirmed that 28 bodies have been recovered from the Potomac River. A total of 67 people were on board both aircraft. Rescue teams continue their efforts to recover all victims.
The accident occurred Wednesday evening near Ronald Reagan Airport. A passenger jet carrying 64 people collided with a U.S. military helicopter transporting three soldiers during its landing approach. Both aircraft crashed into the river. Despite extensive search efforts involving divers and boats, no survivors have been found.
The U.S. Department of Defense stated that the helicopter was on a training flight. However, the exact cause of the collision remains unclear. American Airlines CEO Robert Isom said investigators are examining why the helicopter entered the flight path of the passenger jet.
Tragically, among the victims were about 15 figure skaters from the U.S. national team. They were returning from a training camp in Wichita. Russian 1994 world figure skating champions Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov were also on board. Russia has expressed its deepest condolences to the victims’ families.
Challenging Recovery Efforts and Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the passenger jet was a Bombardier CRJ700. It carried 60 passengers and four crew members. The military helicopter was a Sikorsky H-60, a variant of the Black Hawk.
The FBI found no signs of terrorism or criminal intent. However, many questions remain. A webcam at the Kennedy Center recorded an explosion in the air at 9:47 PM. Moments later, a burning plane sank into the river.
More than 300 emergency responders are working under difficult conditions. Darkness, strong winds, and freezing water make recovery efforts extremely challenging. Fire department divers struggle with poor visibility, while helicopters scan the crash site with searchlights. The Coast Guard is assisting in the rescue operation. Experts believe the recovery may take several days. A diving team has already located one of the plane’s black boxes.
At the airport, anxious relatives wait for news. Many complain about the lack of official updates. One man shared that his wife texted him just before landing. His reply never reached her.
Reactions and Flight Disruptions
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed shock over the tragedy. On Truth Social, he questioned why the helicopter did not move away. “The plane was on a stable landing approach. Why didn’t the helicopter change altitude or direction?” he wrote.
The Pentagon announced a full investigation. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem pledged to provide all available resources for the rescue efforts.
Ronald Reagan Airport will remain closed until Friday morning. All flights have been suspended, causing significant delays. Passengers should expect major disruptions.
