A passenger jet collided with a military Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, causing the airport to shut down until at least 11 a.m. ET Thursday. Officials are closely monitoring the situation, with updates expected as investigations continue. Here’s a breakdown of the key events surrounding the incident.
Airport Closure Announced
Early Thursday morning, authorities confirmed that Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport would remain closed following the mid-air collision. The National Airspace System Status website lists a ground stop in effect until at least 5 a.m. ET Thursday, but officials hinted at potential changes. “Obviously, that will be fluid,” said John Potter, President and CEO of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, during a press briefing.
Details of the Mid-Air Collision
The incident occurred around 9 p.m. ET Wednesday when American Airlines flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, collided with a military Black Hawk helicopter. The jet was arriving from Wichita, Kansas, and had 64 passengers and crew on board. The military helicopter, part of a training mission, carried three soldiers.
Current Status of Casualties
As of the latest update, authorities have not confirmed any injuries or fatalities. The D.C. Metropolitan Police Department and DC Fire and EMS issued a joint statement at 11 p.m. ET Wednesday, stating that “there is no confirmed information on casualties at this time.” Rescue teams and investigators remain on-site to assess the damage and potential casualties.
Response and Investigation Underway
Emergency services, including police and fire units, quickly responded to the crash site. Officials from aviation and military departments are working together to determine the cause of the collision. Both aircraft involved were damaged, but further details on the extent of the damage are still pending.
The mid-air collision has caused major disruptions, but the safety of passengers and crew remains the top concern. Officials are expected to release updates throughout the day as the investigation progresses. Travelers should check with airlines for flight rescheduling and delays.
