A tragic mid-air collision over Washington DC resulted in the deaths of 28 individuals after a passenger plane and a military helicopter crashed into the Potomac River.
On January 30, 2025, an American Airlines passenger jet carrying 64 people collided with a military helicopter conducting a training mission over Washington DC. The impact caused both aircraft to plummet into the Potomac River, breaking the plane into three sections upon impact. Emergency responders have recovered 28 bodies from the river so far, and officials have stated that no survivors are expected.
Transport Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized that this was a standard flight pattern and assured the public of the safety of air travel, stating, “When you fly, you should be assured you’re safe.” He also noted that the fuselage of the plane was located in three different sections in waist-deep water.
Washington DC’s Fire and Emergency Medical Services Chief, John Donnelly, confirmed the transition from a rescue to a recovery operation, indicating the grim expectation of no survivors. Efforts are now focused on recovering the remaining victims and investigating the cause of this tragic accident.
This incident has prompted discussions about air traffic control protocols and the safety of flight operations in shared airspace. Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the factors that led to this devastating collision.
