American Airlines Jet Crashes Into Potomac After Mid-Air Collision with Military Helicopter Near DC

An American Airlines aircraft transporting numerous travelers has collided with a military chopper while approaching Washington DC's Ronald Reagan National Airport.

The jet subsequently plunged into the Potomac River, according to officials, prompting boats and divers to scour the waters for survivors.

The Bombardier CRJ700 regional airliner—carrying 60 passengers and four crew members—struck the helicopter while nearing the runway around 21:00 EST (02:00 GMT) on Wednesday.

The flight had departed from Wichita, Kansas, as per the airline's statement.

Reports from US media indicate that the wrecked aircraft has broken apart in the Potomac River, with ongoing search efforts to locate individuals.

Three US Army personnel were aboard the Black Hawk military chopper involved in the collision, a defense official confirmed.

The helicopter had departed from Fort Belvoir in Virginia.

US President Donald Trump stated he had been "thoroughly briefed on the tragic incident."

"I appreciate the outstanding efforts of our emergency responders. I am closely monitoring the situation and will share updates as they become available," he mentioned in a statement.

Departures and arrivals have been suspended at the airport as emergency crews address the situation, according to an airport post on X.

The Federal Aviation Administration has announced that an inquiry is underway.