American Airlines Flight 5342 collided mid-air with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Washington, D.C., resulting in a catastrophic crash over the Potomac River. The flight, en route from Wichita, Kansas, was nearing its destination at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport when the tragedy occurred.
Among the grieving families is Hamaad Raza, who received a final text from his wife just moments before the disaster. “She texted me that they were landing in 20 minutes,” Raza shared, displaying the undelivered messages on his phone. His subsequent replies remained unsent, signaling the impending tragedy. “I’m just praying that someone is pulling her out of the river right now,” he expressed, holding onto hope amidst the unfolding horror.
The collision occurred around 9 p.m. local time, involving 60 passengers and four crew members aboard the American Airlines flight, and three soldiers conducting a training exercise in the military helicopter. Eyewitnesses reported a fiery explosion before both aircraft plummeted into the icy waters of the Potomac River. Rescue operations commenced immediately, with over 300 emergency personnel braving challenging conditions to search for survivors.
This tragedy has deeply affected the figure skating community, as several members were on board returning from a development camp. Among the victims were former world champions Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, as well as promising young skaters Spencer Lane and Jinna Han. U.S. Figure Skating released a statement expressing their profound grief and extending condolences to the families affected.
As investigations continue into the cause of this preventable accident, the nation mourns the loss of 67 lives in what has been described as a “dark night in our history.” President Trump addressed the nation, honoring the victims with a moment of silence and questioning the circumstances that led to the collision on a clear night.
For those seeking information about loved ones who may have been on Flight 5342, American Airlines has provided a toll-free number: 800-679-8215. They are also offering support to the families during this difficult time.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on supporting the grieving families and understanding the factors that led to this tragic event.
