Washington plane crash kills over 18, triggers emergency response

A tragic plane crash occurred Wednesday night when an American Airlines regional jet, carrying 64 people, collided midair with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan National Airport, resulting in the confirmed deaths of at least 19 individuals. The incident prompted a massive emergency response, with rescue operations ongoing in the icy Potomac River where the plane crashed. President Donald Trump commented on the situation, criticizing air traffic control's handling of the incident and expressing condolences for the victims. The helicopter was reportedly on a training flight, carrying three soldiers whose status remains unknown. Investigations into aviation safety have raised concerns about increasing risks in U.S. air travel, highlighted by previous near-misses and crashes. This incident is being described as the deadliest airline crash in the U.S. since 9/11, drawing comparisons to past aviation tragedies in the area.