67 killed in midair collision between American Airlines jet and Army Black Hawk over Potomac River. 41 bodies recovered; wreckage search ongoing. NTSB investigates helicopter deviation, air traffic control staffing. Both black boxes found; preliminary report due in 30 days.
Recovery crews and divers scoured the Potomac River on Saturday for remains and wreckage following Wednesday night’s midair collision between an American Airlines passenger jet and an Army Black Hawk helicopter, which killed all 67 people on board.
As of Friday afternoon, 41 bodies had been recovered, with 28 positively identified. Washington, DC, Fire Chief John Donnelly said retrieving all remains may require lifting the plane’s fuselage from the river.
Over 300 responders, including Coast Guard and Navy teams, worked in improved weather conditions Saturday. Salvage barges helped them handle heavy debris.
The collision occurred as the American Airlines flight, carrying 64 passengers from Wichita, Kansas, approached Ronald Reagan National Airport. The jet struck the helicopter, which had three highly experienced Army crew members on board. Military officials confirmed the helicopter was conducting a routine training flight for potential emergency evacuations of government officials.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation, with a preliminary report expected within 30 days. Both aircraft’s black boxes have been recovered. Investigators are examining air traffic control actions, the helicopter’s altitude, and whether night vision goggles were in use.
The helicopter deviated from its path, and the air control was understaffed
Early findings suggest the helicopter deviated from its approved flight path, flying above 300 feet instead of the permitted 200 feet and straying at least half a mile off course.
Air traffic control staffing and procedures are also under scrutiny, as the controller handling the collision was managing both helicopter and plane traffic—a task typically split between two controllers.
The FAA has long struggled with a shortage of air traffic controllers, and Reagan National has been understaffed for years. NTSB member Todd Inman confirmed interviews with controllers are ongoing, with staffing levels and training under review.
The tragedy has reignited concerns about aviation safety, particularly in congested airspace like Reagan National’s. President Donald Trump claimed on social media that the helicopter was “flying too high,” though officials have not confirmed this.
This marks the deadliest US aviation incident since 2001, when a jet crashed in Queens, New York, killing 265 people. While air travel remains overwhelmingly safe, the collision underscores the need to address systemic issues, including staffing shortages and operational pressures, to prevent future disasters.
