67 Dead in Tragic Mid-Air Collision in Washington D.C., 40 Bodies Recovered

67 Dead in Tragic Mid-Air Collision in Washington D.C., 40 Bodies Recovered

A tragic mid-air collision between a passenger aircraft and a military helicopter in Washington D.C. has claimed 67 lives. Investigators have recovered the black box from the crash site.

The incident occurred around 9 PM on Wednesday when an American Airlines flight collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter while approaching Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport for landing. Both the plane and the helicopter crashed into the Potomac River following the collision.

The aircraft was carrying 64 passengers, including two Russian coaches, two figure skaters, and their mother. The helicopter had three U.S. Army personnel onboard. So far, 40 bodies have been recovered from the river.

Staffing Issues and Investigation Progress

Reports indicate that, at the time of the crash, only one air traffic controller was on duty in the airport’s airspace control center, although the norm is to have two controllers. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) described this situation as "not standard" in its preliminary report.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has announced that the data from the black box will be analyzed to determine the cause of the crash. A preliminary investigation report is expected to be released within 30 days.

Reactions and Allegations

During a press briefing at the White House, President Donald Trump observed a moment of silence to honor the victims of the crash. Later, he alleged that the "substandard" hiring policies of previous administrations might have contributed to the tragedy.

"We are deeply grieved for the victims of this horrific tragedy," President Trump stated. He also signed a memorandum to cancel Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs in the aviation sector and ordered the appointment of a new FAA chief.

International Reactions

Among the victims were two Russian and two Chinese nationals. Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for the Russian President, extended condolences to the families of the victims, stating, "Today is a day of mourning for us." China also expressed deep sorrow over the incident and urged swift rescue and investigation efforts.

Rescue Operations

Following the crash, divers have been searching the Potomac River for survivors and wreckage. However, rescue operations were temporarily suspended on Thursday evening due to hazardous conditions.

Newly appointed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated, "The loss of 64 civilian passengers and 3 military personnel is profoundly tragic. This is a deep tragedy for all of us."

Efforts to recover bodies and investigate the crash continue as authorities work tirelessly to conclude the rescue operation.