Rescuers search for survivors after midair collision near Washington, DC

Rescuers are searching for survivors in the Potomac River after an American Airlines plane collided midair with a military helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

Multiple agencies are involved in the search and rescue operation, but there is no immediate word on casualties, according to police.

More than 300 first responders are working in what officials describe as a “highly complex” rescue effort.

The American Airlines flight, arriving from Wichita, Kansas, was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. The military helicopter had three people on board, the Washington, DC mayor confirmed.

The collision forced the airport to halt all takeoffs and landings.

Kansas Senator Roger Marshall, speaking at a news conference at Reagan Airport, said the crash was a devastating loss.

“When one person dies, it’s a tragedy, but when many, many, many people die, it’s an unbearable sorrow,” he said.

Official casualty figures have not yet been released.

The Pentagon has launched an immediate investigation, while President Donald Trump appeared to blame the helicopter crew and air traffic controllers.

“The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time. It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, questioning why the helicopter did not change course.

Washington, DC Fire and Emergency Services Chief John Donnelly said responders are battling freezing temperatures, wind, and rough conditions.

“It’s a highly complex operation,” he said. “Everybody’s together under a unified command.”