Incident Overview:

On Wednesday evening, around 9:00 pm (0200 GMT), a Bombardier jet, operated by American Airlines' PSA subsidiary, crashed into the Potomac River after colliding with a Black Hawk military helicopter. The collision occurred while the plane was approaching Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport from Wichita, Kansas. Footage captured from the Kennedy Center showed the two aircraft nearing each other before the crash, which resulted in a fireball.

Casualties:

The plane carried 60 passengers and four crew members, while the helicopter had three military personnel aboard. Although official casualty numbers remain unclear, media reports indicate at least 18 bodies have been pulled from the river. Some members of the US figure skating community were reportedly on the flight, including Russian champions Yevgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov.

Rescue Operation:

A large-scale operation is underway, with over 300 rescue personnel working in hazardous conditions. The icy waters, low visibility, and high winds make the mission particularly challenging. Boats and helicopters with searchlights are actively scouring the river, with the Coast Guard providing additional support. Authorities suggest the search could continue for several days.

Criticism of Air Traffic Control:

Former President Donald Trump expressed his concerns about the incident, questioning why the helicopter failed to avoid the plane despite clear visibility. He also criticized air traffic control, suggesting the crash should have been prevented given the aircraft's approach paths.

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