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Officials in Washington have confirmed that no survivors are expected after an American Airlines passenger plane collided with a military helicopter Wednesday evening at Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA). The accident, which occurred just before the aircraft’s landing, has resulted in a large-scale emergency response and an ongoing investigation.
Washington Fire Chief John Donnelly announced Thursday morning that the mission has transitioned from a rescue effort to a recovery operation.
“At this point, we don’t believe there are any survivors from this accident, and we have recovered 27 people from the plane and one from the helicopter,” Donnelly stated during a press conference. “We are continuing to search through the wreckage, but based on the impact and fire conditions, the likelihood of finding survivors is extremely low.”
The American Airlines flight, en route from Wichita, Kansas, was nearing its final approach when the military helicopter, which was reportedly conducting a routine training mission, struck the aircraft.
The collision occurred around 9 p.m. EST, causing the plane to veer off course and crash near the airport’s perimeter. Witnesses reported seeing flames and debris scattering across the area immediately after impact.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed that the wreckage of both aircraft has been located, including the fuselage of the passenger jet. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are coordinating with local authorities to determine the cause of the collision.
Preliminary reports indicate that there were more than 60 people on board the American Airlines flight at the time of the accident. The exact number of casualties has not been confirmed, but authorities are working to identify the victims. Officials have not yet disclosed details regarding the crew members or military personnel involved.
More than 300 emergency responders from multiple agencies have been deployed in an extensive search-and-recovery effort. Fire crews worked through the night to extinguish the blaze, while law enforcement secured the crash site for investigators.
Federal and local officials have urged the public to avoid speculation as the investigation unfolds. NTSB investigators are expected to analyze flight data recorders, air traffic communications, and witness statements to determine how the aircraft came into contact.
American Airlines has expressed condolences to the victims' families and pledged full cooperation with authorities. “We are devastated by this tragic event and are doing everything we can to support those affected,” the airline said in a statement.
The White House has also been briefed on the incident, with President Joe Biden receiving updates from transportation and aviation officials. The Department of Defense has not yet commented on the status of the military personnel aboard the helicopter.
Officials anticipate further updates as the investigation progresses, with more details expected in the coming days.
