30 Bodies Recovered After Midair Collision in US
A tragic midair collision between an American Airlines flight and a Black Hawk military helicopter over the Potomac River in Washington, DC, has resulted in the recovery of at least 30 bodies. The crash, which occurred late Wednesday night, has left no survivors, as efforts to recover the victims continued on Thursday.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Department of Transportation, and local authorities are leading the joint recovery operation at the crash site. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy confirmed that both aircraft were flying in standard patterns under clear conditions before the collision, and neither was deviating from expected flight paths.
The wreckage of the American Airlines flight was scattered across three sections of the river, submerged in waist-deep water. Despite frigid conditions, heavy winds, and ice, responders worked tirelessly through the night to recover the bodies and other parts of the wreckage.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed sorrow over the devastating loss, offering condolences to the victims’ families. He confirmed that 64 people were on board the American Airlines flight, including 60 passengers and 4 crew members.
DC Mayor Muriel Bowser assured the public that the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation into the crash, though she clarified that there is no indication that other aircraft were involved.
President Donald Trump, who was briefed on the incident, questioned why the helicopter did not maneuver in time to avoid the collision. Investigators are focusing on why the Black Hawk helicopter was in the area at the time of the crash.
The recovery mission and investigation are ongoing.
