WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a devastating turn of events, American Airlines CEO Robert Isom confirmed today that American Eagle Flight 5342, which was traveling from Wichita, Kansas (ICT) to Washington, D.C. (DCA), was involved in a catastrophic accident as it was making its final approach to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on the afternoon of January 29, 2025.

The flight, which was operated by PSA Airlines, was utilizing an Embraer ERJ-145 regional jet, a commonly used aircraft for regional flights. The registration number for the jet was listed as CRJ-700, indicating it was part of a specialized fleet for regional service under the American Eagle banner. This particular flight was carrying 60 passengers, a mixture of families, business travelers, and individuals visiting the nation’s capital for a variety of purposes, including political meetings and leisure. Also on board was a dedicated crew of four members, including the flight attendants and pilots, all trained to handle regional routes.

The passengers aboard Flight 5342 were en route to Washington, D.C., a hub of government, commerce, and tourism, unaware that their flight would tragically come to an untimely end. At the time of the incident, the plane was in the process of descending into the highly busy Reagan National Airport. In the midst of this approach, a catastrophic event occurred. Details surrounding the exact cause of the accident remain under investigation, but initial reports indicate that the plane collided with another aircraft, the U.S. Army’s Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, which was conducting a routine training mission at the time.

American Airlines has assured the public that all standard safety protocols were followed during the flight. These protocols include regular communication with air traffic control, routine maintenance checks, and adherence to all Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. In addition to this, American Airlines has stated that their flight crews undergo extensive training, ensuring they are fully prepared for a wide range of situations. Despite these measures, the flight tragically met an untimely fate.

The airline has pledged to fully cooperate with the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), both of which are now working in tandem to uncover the details of this catastrophic event. “We are working around the clock with aviation experts and emergency response teams to understand what led to this tragedy,” said CEO Robert Isom. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those affected, and we will provide them with all necessary support during this painful time.”

As search and rescue operations continue into the evening and the following days, authorities have confirmed that at least 19 individuals have lost their lives in the crash. The plane, which crashed into the Potomac River just near the Washington National Airport, was subjected to strong winds and low visibility during the final stages of its descent. Emergency responders, including D.C. Fire and EMS, the Metropolitan Police Department, and federal agencies, have been tirelessly working to recover the wreckage of the plane and search for survivors.

Search and rescue operations remain ongoing, as efforts to locate and recover additional victims continue. Teams on the ground, in the air, and in the water have been engaged in exhaustive efforts to identify bodies and gather evidence from the wreckage. The recovery process has been made all the more difficult due to the challenging conditions of the Potomac River and the extensive debris field left behind by the accident.

Both the FAA and NTSB have deployed their most experienced investigators to the site of the crash, working in coordination with law enforcement and first responders. The agencies are now reviewing radar data, flight communication logs, and flight data recorder information to understand exactly what transpired in the critical moments leading to the crash. Federal officials have promised a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic event, with a focus on identifying potential causes and preventing similar accidents from occurring in the future.

Emergency teams have confirmed that they are committed to bringing closure to the families of the victims, and that they will continue their search as long as necessary. Although search and rescue teams are encountering significant challenges, authorities are hopeful that they will be able to recover all victims and bring their loved ones the answers they need.

In the wake of the accident, American Airlines has extended its deepest condolences to the victims’ families. “Our hearts are heavy with grief as we mourn the loss of so many people on this flight,” said Robert Isom. “This is an unimaginable tragedy, and we are committed to providing support to the families of the passengers and crew affected by this loss. We are also offering any necessary assistance to help bring closure to the families who are enduring this heartbreaking ordeal.”

The tragic events have also caught the attention of the general public, with social media platforms and news outlets flooded with tributes from friends, family members, and colleagues of those on board. Numerous social media posts have expressed grief over the loss, with many individuals sharing memories of their interactions with passengers and crew who perished in the crash.

Both the FAA and NTSB are expected to release more information in the coming hours and days as the investigation progresses. However, it is anticipated that the investigation may take several weeks to complete as experts continue to piece together the events that led to the catastrophic accident.

In the meantime, American Airlines is making resources available to assist the families of the victims. The airline has established a dedicated hotline for those affected, which will help facilitate communication and provide updates. Additionally, grief counseling services are being offered to the families of the deceased to help them navigate this difficult period.

As authorities continue their investigation and the recovery efforts remain in full force, the thoughts of a nation remain with the families of those affected by this horrific crash. The loss of so many lives in such a sudden and tragic way has left an indelible mark on the families, communities, and individuals who knew the victims.

American Airlines, the NTSB, and the FAA will continue to work together to understand the full details of this devastating accident and ensure that all those affected receive the support they need during this difficult time.