Investigation Underway After Deadly Helicopter-Plane Collision Near D.C.

A midair collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines jet over the Potomac River near Ronald Reagan National Airport on January 30, 2025, resulted in the deaths of all 67 individuals on board both aircraft. Initial reports suggest the helicopter was flying at approximately 300 feet, exceeding the maximum allowed altitude of 200 feet, which has raised questions about the flight protocols during the routine training mission. President Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that an elevation issue is being investigated by the Department of Defense. Hegseth emphasized that a thorough investigation will be conducted, expressing regret over the mistake that led to the incident and highlighting the inherent risks of military operations. The National Transportation Safety Board is also investigating the crash, seeking to verify flight data and circumstances surrounding the collision. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in military aviation even during standard training missions.