Passenger plane collides with U.S. military jet, over 60 missing
A tragic incident occurred when a passenger aircraft, specifically American Eagle Flight 5342, collided midair with a U.S.Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C. The collision resulted in both aircraft crashing into the Potomac River.
The passenger plane was carrying 64 individuals, which included 60 passengers and four crew members. The helicopter had three soldiers on board.
Search and rescue operations
Following the passenger plane crash with the military jet, a massive U.S. search operation was initiated involving approximately 300 first responders who are currently searching the freezing waters of the Potomac River.
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As of now, at least 12 bodies have been recovered from the river during these search-and-rescue operations, with reports suggesting that this number could approach 20 fatalities.
Unfortunately, no survivors have been reported from passenger plane crash with the military jet, as rescuers continue their efforts under challenging conditions.
Casualties and victims
The information indicates that several members of the figure skating community were on board the passenger jet. This includes athletes, coaches, and family members returning from a National Development Camp held in conjunction with the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas. Among those confirmed to be on the flight are Russian figure skating champions Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov.
In response to this tragedy, various officials have expressed their condolences.
U.S. President Donald Trump referred to the passenger plane crash with the military jet as “a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented.” Additionally, Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser has extended her prayers to all affected by this incident and scheduled a news conference for further updates.
U.S. rescue operations are complicated by freezing temperatures in the area. The temperature at Reagan National Airport is reported to be around 45 degrees Fahrenheit but is expected to drop below freezing during nighttime hours. These conditions pose significant challenges for rescue teams working diligently to recover victims from the river.
