Washington: Passenger Plane Collides with Military Helicopter, Crashes into River; 18 Bodies Recovered, More Casualties Feared

According to Flight Radar, the accident occurred at 5:48 PM local time when the plane was traveling at a speed of 166 kilometers per hour.

Reports indicate that the Bombardier CRJ700 aircraft, which has a seating capacity of 78, collided with a military helicopter before plunging into the Potomac River. Divers have been deployed in the river following the accident.

It has been reported that 64 passengers were aboard the ill-fated aircraft. Rescue operations began immediately after the accident, and 18 bodies have so far been recovered, with the search for more continuing.

U.S. military officials confirmed that the military helicopter involved in the collision was carrying three personnel.

According to U.S. media, the Black Hawk military helicopter was on a training mission when it collided with the passenger plane.

Following the incident, all flights at Reagan National Airport have been suspended. President Donald Trump has been briefed about the air accident.

In his statement, Trump said, “I have been fully informed about the air accident and am monitoring the situation closely. Further details will be shared as they become available.”