A catastrophic midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport initiated a comprehensive search and rescue operation in the frigid waters of the Potomac River. Recently released air traffic control audio has offered a haunting insight into the moments preceding and following the incident, illuminating the tragic event. The calamity transpired when an American Airlines passenger jet collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter in the vicinity of the airport. The collision caused the commercial aircraft to plunge into the icy river, with debris from both aircraft scattered across the water’s surface. Authorities have confirmed multiple fatalities, and as of the latest updates, no survivors have been located.

In light of this tragedy, officials have suspended all airport operations until at least 11 a.m. ET on Thursday, as first responders diligently search for victims and recover wreckage. American Airlines Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, had taken off from Wichita, Kansas, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. The Black Hawk helicopter, engaged in a training mission with three soldiers on board, was operating in the same airspace at the time of the collision. Aviation and defense officials reported that the passenger plane was fragmented in the river, while the remnants of the helicopter were discovered nearby.

Air traffic control recordings captured the tense moments leading up to the crash. In the audio, a controller is heard inquiring of the helicopter crew, “PAT 2-5, do you have the CRJ in sight?” Shortly thereafter, the controller instructs, “PAT 2-5, pass behind the CRJ.” The Black Hawk pilot then confirms visual contact with the aircraft, stating, “PAT 2-5 has aircraft in sight, request visual separation.” Just 13 seconds later, the recording captures an audible gasp from the control tower, followed by a shocked response, indicating the moment of impact. Air traffic controllers promptly notified another pilot about the developing disaster, warning of an indefinite closure at the airport.
An air traffic controller communicated to a pilot, “I am unsure if you are aware of the earlier incident, but there was a collision at the approach end of Runway 33. We will be suspending operations for an indefinite period. If you wish to return to the gate, I strongly recommend coordinating with your airline. Please inform me of your decision.”

Another pilot who observed the event reported, “Yes, we were on short final and noticed flares from the opposite side of the Potomac.” Concurrently, an approach controller verified, “It appears that both aircraft involved have entered the river. A search and rescue operation is currently underway.” The crash caused considerable disruptions at Reagan National Airport, leading to the diversion of flights to alternative locations. Jack Potter, CEO of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, expressed his condolences, noting that American Airlines had established a support center within the airport to aid the families of those on board the flight.