No survivors in D.C. plane crash that killed 64, including figure skaters

On January 29, 2025, a deadly midair collision occurred near Washington, D.C., involving an American Airlines passenger flight and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter. This tragic accident took place as the American Airlines flight 5342 was approaching Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport after departing from Wichita, Kansas. The collision resulted in both aircraft crashing into the Potomac River, leading to a catastrophic loss of life. Preliminary reports indicated that there were 60 passengers and four crew members aboard the flight, with three soldiers aboard the helicopter. Recovery operations began shortly after the crash, with at least 30 bodies recovered by investigators that night. The American Airlines flight had carried figure skaters returning from a championship event, alongside two Russian coaches, highlighting the profound impact of this disaster on the skating community. Rescue efforts, however, transitioned into a recovery phase as authorities expressed doubts about the possibility of any survivors. D.C. Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly confirmed during a press conference that they did not believe anyone had survived the accident. Multiple agencies were involved in the recovery operation, which faced harsh weather conditions. Helicopter training flights in that area have drawn attention as officials examine what led to the aircraft entering the flight path of the passenger jet. Investigations into the accident are ongoing, and safety checks for air traffic operations will likely be enhanced as a response to this tragedy. The airport was temporarily closed, but operations were expected to resume, underscoring the resilience of the air traffic system despite the tragedy. Family members of the victims were gathered at the airport, and American Airlines announced that they would be providing support for those affected by the crash.