American Eagle Jet and Army Helicopter Midair Collision: Tragic Incident at Reagan National Airport

A military Black Hawk helicopter collided midair with an American Airlines jet, operated by PSA Airlines, at Reagan National Airport on January 29, 2025. The incident occurred while the jet was on approach to Runway 33. The FAA and NTSB are investigating the crash.

On January 29, 2025, a tragic incident occurred at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport when a military Black Hawk helicopter collided midair with an American Airlines jet. The jet, operated by PSA Airlines as Flight 5342, was on approach to Runway 33 when the collision happened around 9 p.m. local time.
The Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia received multiple calls about the incident at 8:53 p.m., and emergency crews quickly responded. The scene was chaotic, with numerous emergency vehicles and fireboats on the scene. Video footage captured a midair explosion near the Potomac River.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are leading the investigation into the cause of the collision. The NTSB will take the lead in determining the exact circumstances of the crash. President Donald Trump has been informed of the situation, calling it “tragic.”
The incident has raised concerns about air safety and the coordination between military and civilian aircraft. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the inquiry progresses.

1. What happened during the incident?
   A military Black Hawk helicopter collided midair with an American Airlines jet operated by PSA Airlines at Reagan National Airport.
2. Where did the incident occur?
   The incident occurred at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Virginia.

3. What time did the collision happen?
   The collision happened around 9 p.m. local time.

4. Who is leading the investigation?
   The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are leading the investigation, with the NTSB taking the lead.

5. Has there been any official response from authorities?
   Yes, President Donald Trump has been informed of the situation, and the Metropolitan Police Department and other agencies are coordinating a search and rescue operation.

The midair collision between a military helicopter and an American Airlines jet at Reagan National Airport is a stark reminder of the risks involved in air travel. The ongoing investigation aims to determine the exact cause of the incident, ensuring that such tragedies are prevented in the future.