Around 19 aircraft were airborne when the crash occurred near Reagan National Airport, prompting their diversion to Dulles International Airport, located roughly 20 miles to the west. According to aviation analytics company Cirium, 858 flights were scheduled to operate at Reagan National Airport on Wednesday, with another 869 flights planned for Thursday. Airport officials confirmed that Reagan National will remain closed until at least 11 am ET Thursday.
Washington DC Plane Crash Live Updates: All about Bombardier CRJ700 that crashed into the river
The Bombardier CRJ700 is a reliable regional jet, typically seating around 70 passengers, and plays a key role in regional commercial air travel. According to aviation data firm Cirium, approximately 260 of these aircraft are currently in operation. The plane involved in the January 29 crash, registered as N530EA, was built in 2010, as reported by the Federal Aviation Administration. American Airlines confirmed there were 60 passengers and four crew members on board. Although the aircraft was registered to American Airlines, it was operated by PSA Airlines, a fully owned subsidiary.
Washington DC Plane Crash Live Updates: This could have been avoided, says Trump
Trump took to Twitter and expressed shock over the entire incident. He said that the plane was on a normal approach to the airport, but the helicopter kept heading straight towards it for a long time. He further questioned that it was a clear night, and the plane’s lights were bright—why didn’t the helicopter move up, down, or turn? Why didn’t the control tower direct the helicopter, instead of just asking if they saw the plane? Trump said that this is a terrible situation that seems like it could have been avoided.
Reagan Airport Plane Crash Live: American Airlines passenger plane collides with Army helicopter midair
An American Airlines passenger plane and a Army helicopter collided midair on Thursday, causing both aircraft to crash into the Potomac River near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The plane was carrying 64 people, including both passengers and crew members.