Aircraft traffic was halted at Ronald Reagan National Airport after a military Blackhawk helicopter and plane collided with each other in midair.
American Airlines Flight 5342 from Wichita, Kansas, collided with a helicopter, which the Federal Aviation Administration revealed was a military Blackhawk Sikorsky H-60 helicopter. A webcam video from the Kennedy Center captured the incident.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that President Donald Trump was made aware of the incident.
Vice President JD Vance responded to the crash on X, saying, “Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan airport this evening. We’re monitoring the situation, but for now let’s hope for the best.”
No fatalities have been confirmed by authorities.
Reagan Airport suspended all takeoffs and landings at the airport after the crash, which occurred at approximately 9 p.m. Eastern.
“Emergency personnel are responding to an aircraft incident on the airfield. The terminal remains open. Will update,” the airport said.
The DC Fire and EMS Department said fireboats had been deployed. The FAA added that it and the National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the crash, with the latter leading the inquiry.
Video posted on social media showed police aircraft and fireboats surveying the area.
All water rescue boats from the general area have been dispatched.
Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS) said he was aware of the crash in a post on X.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER
“Learning that a plane inbound from Kansas was involved in a crash at DCA. I am in contact with authorities. Please join me in praying for all involved.”
This is a breaking news story and will be updated.
