Ari Schulman witnessed a tragic midair collision while driving home, describing the plane as initially normal before it suddenly tilted sharply. Seconds later, he observed sparks flying from the aircraft before it went dark. A recovery operation is underway in the frigid waters of the Potomac River, where over 40 bodies have been retrieved, and unfortunately, no survivors are expected among the 67 victims, including three military personnel aboard the helicopter involved. Jennifer Homendy of the National Transportation and Safety Board noted the complex recovery challenges in dark, ice-flanked waters.
Earlier, there was a near-miss incident at Reagan Airport involving another regional jet and a military helicopter just a day before the fatal crash. Air traffic control was managed by a single controller for two positions, a setup described as not uncommon but under scrutiny following the incident.
Both aircraft’s crews were experienced in their operations, and Transport Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed that the American Airlines flight was following standard procedures. The NTSB has begun probing the incident, assessing factors contributing to the collision amidst statements from officials emphasizing the overall safety of the airspace. The tragedy has drawn international attention, with condolences extending from various corners, including the figure skating community after two well-known Russian skaters were reported to be on board the flight.