Search for survivors in DC plane-helicopter crash continues, 18 confirmed dead

A tragic collision occurred between American Airlines Flight 5342, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan National Airport, with both aircraft crashing into the Potomac River. Search and rescue operations involving around 300 first responders are underway, but the conditions are described as dangerous due to murky water and freezing temperatures. As of now, at least 18 bodies have been recovered, and there are no confirmed survivors. DC's Fire and EMS Chief John A. Donnelly Sr indicated that recovery efforts might take several days, and an investigation into the crash is expected to be lengthy. The helicopter was reportedly on a training flight, and former President Donald Trump criticized the response of the air traffic controllers and the military's actions during the incident. Reagan Airport has been closed as the rescue mission remains the top priority, although hopes of finding survivors are diminishing.