Saudi King and Crown Prince express condolences over deadly mid-air collision in Washington

We came to know the news of the collision of a passenger plane with a military helicopter in the capital, Washington, and the resulting deaths,

the King and the Crown Prince said in cables of condolences sent separately to Trump

Our concern is for the passengers and crew on board the aircraft. We are in contact with authorities and assisting with emergency response efforts,

the airline said in a statement

Donald Trumppresident

We are all searching for answers,

said President Donald Trump in his remarks on Thursday morning

We did not know what led to this crash, but we have some very strong opinions and ideas, and I think we’ll probably state those opinions now, because over the years, I’ve watched as things like this happen,

Trump said

If you live in the DC area, you will see helicopters up and down the river

he said

We call these missions that are flown in the DC area as our pilots are getting hours and experience training missions,

he said

FAA investigators are supporting the NTSB-led investigation of Wednesday night's midair collision near Reagan Washington National Airport. The NTSB is leading the investigation and will provide all updates. We cannot comment on any aspect of open investigations. The FAA will quickly take any actions necessary based on evidence from the investigation."

The FAA said in a statement

Joaquin Castrohawaii Sean Casten, Illinois Kathy Castor, Florida

In May, I was proud to be part of the effort to authorize more direct flights into Washington D.C. and open the door for a nonstop flight from San Antonio. American's proposed direct flight will make travel easier for thousands of military, business and leisure travelers and attract new jobs for our talented workforce."

Democratic Texas Representative Joaquin Castro said in July 2024 statement

Tim Kainesenator

God forbid waking up and looking in a mirror one day and saying, 'Wow, I was warned. I was warned, and I shouldn't have done this,'

Kaine said

Mark Warnersenate Intelligence Committee Chairman

While the bill contains many positive features, the Senate is poised to consider a provision that could impair safety and will significantly increase delay and inconvenience experienced by the nearly 25 million passengers who use Reagan National Airport (DCA) every year. The provision will overburden the already congested main runway at DCA and, as shown by a recent near-collision at the airport, increase the risk of a serious accident there."

Senators Mark R. Warner, Tim Kaine, Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen said in April 2024 statement

Sean Duffytransportation Secretary

We are going to wait for all the information to come in from this vantage point, but … what I've seen so far, do I think this was preventable? Absolutely. Something went wrong here. I look forward to the time and point where we can give you that information, but I don't want to comment on that right now."

Transport Secretary Sean Duffy said during Thursday press briefing on the collision

We are devastated by this unspeakable tragedy and hold the victims’ families closely in our hearts. We will continue to monitor the situation and will release more information as it becomes available,

the statement added

I landed at DCA this evening at 8:42pm, IAH—DCA, minutes before an in-flight collision over the airport. My thoughts are with all involved and their families. Hoping first responders find survivors,

the congressman noted on Wednesday night

U.S. Figure Skating can confirm that several members of our skating community were sadly aboard American Airlines Flight 5342, which collided with a helicopter yesterday evening in Washington, D.C. These athletes, coaches, and family members were returning home from the National Development Camp held in conjunction with the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas,

U.S. Figure Skating noted

At this time, we don’t know why the military aircraft came into the path of the PSA aircraft,

Isom said

The challenges are access. The water that we’re operating in is about 8 feet deep,

Washington Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly said

If you believe you may have loved ones on board Flight 5342, call American Airlines toll-free at 800-679-8215. Those calling from outside the U.S. can visit news.aa.com for additional phone numbers. Family members in Canada, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands can call 800-679-8215 directly.”

American Airlines released a statement that read

All takeoffs and landings have been halted at DCA. Emergency personnel are responding to an aircraft incident on the airfield. The terminal remains open. Will update."

The airport issued a statement saying

We're aware of reports that American Eagle flight 5342, operated by PSA, with service from Wichita, Kansas (ICT) to Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA) has been involved in an incident. We will provide information as it becomes available."

American Airlines released a statement saying

JD Vancevice President

Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan airport this evening. We're monitoring the situation, but for now let's hope for the best."

Vice President JD Vance took to Twitter advising