A regional passenger jet traveling from Wichita to Washington, D.C., crashed midair into an Army helicopter Wednesday night as it attempted to land at Reagan Washington National Airport. The plane, a Bombardier CRJ700 operated by Pacific Southwest Airlines, a regional subsidiary of American Airlines, was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. It collided with an Army Black Hawk helicopter just before 9 p.m. EST.
The flight departed Wichita around 5:20 p.m. CDT. A camera at the Kennedy Center captured the explosion in the sky before both aircraft fell. As of 10 p.m. CST, no deaths had been confirmed. American Airlines CEO Robert Isom provided an update on its website and contact information for those who think a loved one may have been on the flight. (which can also be found below)
Law enforcement received multiple calls about the crash at 8:53 p.m. EST, and a search and rescue mission was underway near the Potomac River.
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly released a statement regarding the crash: “I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives last night and extend my deepest condolences to the victims’ families and loved ones. I have been in constant communication with federal, state, and local officials overnight and want to thank the over 300 first responders from across the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area for their response efforts. I will issue a flag order today to acknowledge this devastating event and tragic loss of lives.”
Kansas lawmakers, including Rep. Ron Estes, Rep. Derek Schmidt, and Sen. Roger Marshall, shared their thoughts and prayers for the victims, first responders, and those involved in the crash. Other Kansas legislators, including Reps. Sharice Davids and Tracey Mann and Sen. Jerry Moran, also offered their prayers and support.
If you believe you may have loved ones on board Flight 5342, call American Airlines toll-free at 800-679-8215. Those calling from outside the U.S. can visit news.aa.com for additional phone numbers. Family members in Canada, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands can call 800-679-8215 directly.
