A fatal accident occurred on January 29 when an American Airlines regional jet crossed paths in mid-air with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter close to Washington D.C. This aircraft accident took place within five kilometers from the White House killing at least 18 individuals. The Bombardier CRJ-700 American Eagle aircraft operated from Wichita Kansas was flying with 60 passengers and four crew members on board, and the U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter was conducting training duty carrying three soldiers when it suffered the collision.
Terrifying footage emerges
The aircraft encountered a mid-air accident during its approach toward Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Footage recorded the terrifying moment when the plane transformed into an explosive fireball. Emergency response crews rushed to the accident site to focus its search efforts near the Potomac River after reported evidence of the plane breaking into two parts and sinking under the water surface.
Search operations still going on
The search teams are yet to recover any survivours. Both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are performing investigations to establish what caused the airplane accident.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed his deep sympathy for victims’ families along with a commitment to support authorities during their investigation. During his statement, President Donald Trump also offered heartfelt condolences. More information about the incident is being investigated with help from FBI agents who support officials on site.