American Airline Crash: A passenger jet carrying 60 people collided with an Army helicopter while landing at Ronald Reagan National Airport in the U.S. on Wednesday. Authorities fear multiple casualties, and rescue teams are actively responding to the incident.The U.S. President has expressed deep sorrow over the accident and stated that he is closely watching the ongoing rescue efforts.
Meanwhile, a recording of the last conversation between the American Airline Crash (pilot) and an air traffic controller before the crash has gone viral online.
Less than 30 seconds before the crash, an air traffic controller asked the helicopter if it could see the incoming plane.Moments later, the controller radioed the helicopter again, instructing, “PAT 25, pass behind the CRJ.” Just seconds after that, the two aircraft collided.
The tragic midair collision between an American Airlines plane and a military helicopter occurred on Wednesday night, claiming at least 18 lives. So far, no survivors have been found, according to the Associated Press.
The crash involved a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet and a Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk helicopter. Both aircraft went down while trying to land at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
The search operation is still ongoing. A police officer at the scene told CBS News that they could see three areas of wreckage in the river and had found at least 18 bodies. “So far, no survivors have been found,” the officer said.
How Many Passengers Were on Board?
The American Airlines plane had 60 passengers and four crew members on board. Meanwhile, the U.S. Army confirmed that three soldiers were in the military helicopter during the crash. So far, reports say 18 bodies have been recovered, but there is no official confirmation on the total number of casualties.
American Airline Crash: The Final 30 Seconds
Less than 30 seconds before the crash, the air traffic controller asked the helicopter if it could see the approaching plane: “PAT25, do you have the CRJ in sight?” Moments later, the controller radioed again, instructing, “PAT25, pass behind the CRJ.” Seconds after that, the two aircraft collided. According to AFP, an audio recording shows that the helicopter did not respond to the controller’s warning.
Investigation in Progress
The Federal Aviation Administration has stated that the collision is still under investigation. Meanwhile, Washington, DC, police shared on social media that multiple agencies are working on a search and rescue operation in the Potomac River following the crash.
American Airlines mentioned in a statement that it will release information as it becomes available. The airport also confirmed that emergency teams are responding to an “American Airline Crash incident on the airfield.
