All 67 Presumed Dead After Plane-Helicopter Collision Over Potomac

Audio recordings from air traffic control have revealed the moments leading up to a catastrophic mid-air collision between an American Airlines regional jet and a military Black Hawk helicopter near Washington D.C. Both aircraft, carrying a total of 67 people, crashed into the Potomac River, with all individuals on board feared dead. The recordings show air traffic controllers attempting to guide the helicopter to avoid the commercial flight, but despite instructions to pass behind the jet, a collision occurred, resulting in audible gasps from the control tower. Following the incident, operations at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport were suspended, and a search and rescue operation commenced. This tragic event underscores the critical need for effective communication and vigilance in aviation safety. The incident has led to diversions of other flights and raised serious concerns regarding air traffic management protocols.