Tragic Air Collision Near Reagan Airport Claims 18 Lives

Midair Crash Leads to Fatalities

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – Authorities have confirmed that 18 bodies have been recovered following a devastating midair collision between a commercial passenger jet and a military helicopter near Reagan Washington National Airport, CBS News reported.

Details of the Aircraft Involved

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated that PSA Airlines was operating Flight 5342 on behalf of American Airlines. The aircraft, a Bombardier CRJ700, had taken off from Wichita, Kansas. The airline’s website indicates the jet can accommodate up to 65 passengers.

Reports confirm that 64 people were on board the regional jet, while three soldiers were traveling in the military’s UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter.

Search and Rescue Efforts Underway

Emergency teams swiftly launched a rescue operation in the Potomac River, which borders the airport. However, authorities have yet to confirm the total number of casualties.