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N709PS Passenger Plane Collides with Black Hawk Helicopter
On the evening of January 29, 2025, at approximately 9:00 p.m. EST, American Airlines Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines under the American Eagle brand, was on approach to Runway 33 at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport when it collided mid-air with a U.S. Army Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River. The Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet had departed from Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport in Kansas, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. The helicopter had three military personnel on board. The collision resulted in the loss of all 64 individuals aboard the passenger jet and three crew members of the Black Hawk Helicopter.
Black Box Data Update Blackhawk-CrJ Midair Collision
The NTSB’s analysis of black box data from the January 29th midair collision between a Blackhawk helicopter and a CRJ aircraft near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) has revealed critical failures in communication, altitude awareness, and collision avoidance systems. The investigation indicates that altimeter discrepancies, missed air traffic control (ATC) instructions, and the limitations of night vision goggles (NVGs) may have contributed to the crash. Additionally, the Blackhawk’s failure to transmit ADS-B data, which would have improved situational awareness for both aircraft, is under investigation.
The accident unfolded in low-altitude airspace, where pilots must rely heavily on clear ATC instructions and accurate altitude readings. However, the Blackhawk crew may have received incorrect altitude data, and crucial instructions from ATC were either misheard or cut off due to radio interference. The CRJ pilots made last-second maneuvers upon realizing the impending collision, but impact was unavoidable. The NTSB continues its simulation-based analysis to determine exactly what the Blackhawk pilots could see and whether NVGs played a role in limiting their field of vision.
Key Findings from the NTSB Report
- Altitude Discrepancies: The pilot and instructor had conflicting altitude readings (300 ft vs. 400 ft), and the NTSB found inconsistencies in barometric altitude data.
- Missed ATC Instructions: The Blackhawk did not hear crucial parts of ATC transmissions, including “pass behind” and “circling,” due to radio interference.
- Night Vision Goggles (NVGs): The pilots were likely wearing NVGs, which reduce peripheral vision from 180° to 40°, potentially affecting their ability to see the CRJ.
- ADS-B Transmission Failure: The Blackhawk was not transmitting ADS-B data, which would have alerted other aircraft to its exact location.
- Final Maneuvers & Impact: The CRJ pilots made drastic control inputs (9° nose-up, 11° left roll) in a last-second attempt to avoid the crash. No electronic collision warnings were received.
NTSB Live Media Briefings: Flight PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 & Sikorsky H-60 military helicopter collision
NTSB Media Briefing 5 - March 11, 2025
March 11, 2025: NTSB briefs the media on the investigation of the January 29 mid-air collision involving a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 airplane and a U.S. Army Sikorsky UH-60L Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
Summary of the NTSB Press Briefing on Aviation Accident
- The briefing, conducted by NTSB (National Transportation Safety Board), focuses on the midair collision on January 29 involving:
- A US Army UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter.
- PSA Airlines, operating as American Airlines Flight 5342, over the Potomac River near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).
Key Points of the Preliminary Report
Nature of Preliminary Reports
- Reports are based on validated facts and do not include final analyses.
- Further investigation will determine probable causes and safety recommendations.
Flight and Crew Data
- Discusses crew experience, flight histories, and initial data from recorders.
- Noted challenges with the Blackhawk’s data recording, particularly with inconsistent altitude data.
Safety Concerns Identified
- Identified significant concerns regarding helicopter routes near DCA.
- Highlighted instances where Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) advisories were triggered due to helicopters flying too close to commercial flights.
Urgent Safety Recommendations
Proposed Restrictions
- Recommending that the FAA permanently prohibit helicopter operations on Route 4 between Hanes Point and the Wilson Bridge when specific runways are active (Runways 15 and 33).
Alternative Solutions
- Suggests FAA should designate an alternative helicopter route for safety.
Concerns about Airspace Safety
- Emphasized that current separation distances pose an “intolerable risk”.
- Recommended urgent action to prevent future incidents.
Investigation and Future Steps
- Simulations and Studies:
- Conduct simulations for flight conditions, visibility studies, and air traffic control scenarios.
- Data Analysis:
- Further analysis on equipment like altimeters and data recorders.
- Policy Evaluations:
- FAA is reviewing other airports for similar risks.
Public Reassurance
- The NTSB reassured that aviation remains safe, but continuous improvements are necessary.
- Urged for proactive steps to mitigate risks and ensure public safety.
NTSB Media Briefing 4 - February 14, 2025
February 14, 2025: NTSB briefs the media on the investigation of the January 29 mid-air collision involving a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 airplane and a Sikorsky UH-60L military helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
Summary of the NTSB Press Briefing on Aviation Accident
- The briefing was conducted by Eric Weiss from NTSB media relations, along with NTSB Chairman Jennifer Homendy and Records Branch Chief Sha Payne.
- The focus was on providing an investigative update about the January 29th midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).
Sequence of the Accident
Blackhawk’s Flight Overview
- The Blackhawk helicopter was undergoing a check ride (annual and night vision goggle check).
- The crew was likely wearing night vision goggles throughout the flight.
- Helicopter Route: Followed Route 1 to Route 4, as designated by the FAA.
Key Events Leading to Collision
- CRJ Flight Descent: The CRJ initiated its descent from 37,000 ft at 8:15 p.m. EST.
- Blackhawk Movement: Began moving southbound at 8:30 p.m., following Route 1 over the Potomac River.
- CRJ Visual Approach: Cleared for Mount Vernon visual approach by 8:39 p.m..
Critical Moments
- Communication Challenges:
- The Blackhawk’s cockpit voice recorder (CVR) indicated potential missed communications from air traffic control (ATC).
- Instructions from ATC about passing behind the CRJ were likely not received by the Blackhawk crew due to transmission interference.
- Collision Timeline:
- Both aircraft were within dangerous proximity seconds before impact.
- The final recorded altitude for the Blackhawk was 278 ft, while the CRJ was at 311 ft.
- Communication Challenges:
Data and Equipment Challenges
Flight Recorder Data Analysis
- Radio Altitude (measured from ground to helicopter) was determined valid.
- Barometric Altitude data (pilot-reported altitude) was unavailable from the Blackhawk’s flight data recorder (FDR).
- Pressure Altitude data was found invalid, complicating precise altitude analysis.
ADS-B System Inquiry
- Although the Blackhawk was equipped with ADS-B Out (for transmitting location data), it wasn’t transmitting at the time of the accident.
- Possible reasons include installation, programming, or equipment malfunction, which are under investigation.
Planned Investigative Actions
Visibility Study:
- Laser scans will be conducted on similar aircraft to simulate and understand pilot visibility limitations.
- The study will consider seating positions, night vision goggles, and cockpit layouts.
Wreckage Examination:
- The Blackhawk wreckage will be moved to a secure location for further analysis.
- Special attention will be given to examining altimeter systems and data accuracy.
Preliminary Findings and Recommendations
- Potential Data Discrepancies:
- There’s concern that the Blackhawk crew may have perceived inaccurate altitude readings.
- Safety Recommendations:
- Temporary restrictions on helicopter routes were commended.
- Future recommendations will be made based on ongoing analysis, with the possibility of urgent safety actions if necessary.
NTSB Media Briefing 3 - February 1, 2025
February 1, 2025: NTSB briefs the media on the investigation of the January 29 mid-air collision involving a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 airplane and a Sikorsky H-60 military helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
Summary of the NTSB Press Briefing on Aviation Accident
- The briefing is led by Todd Inman (NTSB Board Member) and Bryce Banning (Investigator in Charge).
- Condolences were extended to the families of 67 victims in the accident, as well as to those affected by another recent crash in Philadelphia.
- The NTSB reaffirmed its commitment to determining the causes of these accidents and preventing future occurrences.
Key Statistics and NTSB Investigation Process
- 12888 investigations conducted last year, with 124 in aviation.
- 1,145 open investigations in aviation currently.
- 343 fatalities recorded across all transportation modes last year.
- 283 aviation-related recommendations still pending implementation.
- The NTSB team handling the current investigation has over 350 years of collective experience.
Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR)
- Both recorders from the aircraft involved were recovered by an FBI dive team and analyzed at the NTSB lab.
- The FDR contained 400 parameters and was successfully downloaded.
- The CVR recorded 2 hours and 4 minutes of audio, capturing communications and alerts before the crash.
- The accident sequence and timing are being analyzed using ADSB and FDR time synchronization.
Key Timeline of Events
- 8:15 PM, the aircraft descended from 37,000 feet.
- 8:39 PM: The aircraft was cleared for a Mount Vernon visual approach to Runway 1.
- 8:43 PM: The DCA Tower requested a switch to Runway 33, which was accepted by the crew.
- 8:46 PM: Automated altitude callouts and air traffic warnings were heard.
- 8:47 PM: The tower directed the aircraft to pass behind a CRJ at 1,200 ft.
- 8:48 PM: Approximately collision occurred, with impact sounds being recorded one second before the end of the CVR.
Air Traffic Control and Radar Data
- 5 controllers were present at the DCA tower at the time of the accident.
- NTSB investigating possible communication limitations between aircraft due to separate UHF and VHF frequencies.
- Radar data showed the CRJ at 325 feet (+/- 25 feet) at impact.
- Tower radar indicated the Blackhawk helicopter at 200 feet, but further verification is needed.
- The NTSB is investigating possible discrepancies between real-time aircraft altitudes and radar readings.
Possible Factors in the Crash
- Communication Conflicts:
- Military aircraft (Blackhawk) operated on UHF, while civilian aircraft used VHF.
- This prevented direct communication between the two aircraft.
- Runway Change Request:
- The crew was asked to switch from Runway 1 to Runway 33 minutes before impact.
- NTSB considers this a routine occurrence, but it is being examined.
- Night Vision Goggles:
- Blackhawk pilots were on a training mission using night vision goggles.
- NTSB investigating whether goggles were actively used and their effect on situational awareness.
Final Notes
- The NTSB emphasized the need for urgent safety improvements.
- Investigators continue to analyze altitude discrepancies, radio communication issues, and procedural adherence.
- A final report will confirm key findings and recommend safety changes.
The investigation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as more data becomes available.
NTSB Media Briefing 2 - January 31, 2025:
Summary of the NTSB Press Briefing on Aviation Accident
- Todd Inman, NTSB Board Member, provides an update on the investigation.
- The NTSB expresses condolences to the families of the victims.
- The primary mission:
- Determine the probable cause of the accident.
- Provide safety recommendations to prevent future incidents.
Key Investigation Updates
Collaboration and Support
- Multiple local, state, and federal agencies are involved, including:
- Fairfax County Fire and Rescue, Arlington County Fire, Virginia State Police.
- U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Army, FBI, Secret Service, and FAA.
- Over 100 family members of victims are in the area receiving briefings and support.
NTSB Team and Technical Experts
- A Blackhawk-certified pilot has been brought in to assist due to the military involvement in the accident.
- The NTSB is conducting a joint investigation with the Department of Defense (DOD).
- Full NTSB staff is now on-site.
Salvage and Wreckage Recovery
- The Navy Supervisor of Salvage is leading the recovery operations.
- Barges are en route from Virginia Beach for major debris retrieval.
- A debris mapping operation is underway to aid in the investigation.
- There are two primary debris fields:
- Sikorsky Helicopter (smaller debris area).
- CRJ Aircraft (larger debris area).
- Large portions of the wreckage are intact, which will aid in analysis and reconstruction.
Air Traffic Control (ATC) Investigation
- Interviews with ATC personnel are ongoing.
- Full cooperation from ATC officials has been received.
- The NTSB is analyzing ATC radar data to determine:
- Potential miscommunication.
- Possible separation conflicts between the aircraft.
- The NTSB warns against speculation based on online ATC recordings, as official data is more accurate.
Flight Recorders (Black Boxes)
- CRJ Aircraft:
- Flight Data Recorder (FDR) has been recovered and is in good condition.
- Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) suffered water intrusion but is being carefully extracted and dried.
- Both recorders expected to yield critical data.
- Sikorsky Helicopter:
- Single combined FDR and CVR unit recovered.
- No exterior damage observed, high chance of full data recovery.
Potential Causes and Safety Measures
- Mid-air Collision Analysis:
- The “Swiss Cheese Model” of aviation safety was breached, meaning multiple failures led to the accident.
- Aviation remains one of the safest forms of transportation due to layers of redundancy.
- More safety recommendations will be issued following the investigation.
- Deconflicting Military and Civilian Airspace?
- While the NTSB does not speculate, changes in airspace management may be proposed based on findings.
Timeline of Next Steps
- Debris recovery expected to start in full force by Sunday.
- Black box data synchronization and analysis ongoing.
- Further interviews with ATC personnel and flight operators will continue.
- Final report and recommendations may take months to complete.
Final NTSB Notes
- The NTSB remains committed to finding the facts and preventing future tragedies.
- Independent, bipartisan investigation with no external influence.
- Pressing for the adoption of safety recommendations to prevent similar accidents.
NTSB Media Briefing 1 - January 30, 2025
January 30, 2025: NTSB briefs the media on the investigation of the January 29 mid-air collision involving a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 airplane and a Sikorsky H-60 military helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
Summary of the NTSB Press Briefing on Aviation Accident
- Jennifer Homendy, Chairwoman of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), opens the briefing.
- The NTSB is an independent federal agency tasked with investigating civil aviation accidents and other significant transportation incidents.
- Expresses deep condolences to the victims’ families.
Key Points on the Investigation
NTSB Investigation and Government Support
- Investigation is in its early stages; no cause has been determined yet.
- The entire NTSB board and a team of nearly 50 personnel are involved.
- The White House, FAA, and Department of Transportation have been briefed.
- A joint government effort is underway, with local, state, and federal agencies assisting.
Scene and Recovery Operations
- First responders prioritized search and rescue operations before the NTSB could begin on-site investigation.
- Navy Supervisor of Salvage leading wreckage recovery with barges in transit for large debris removal.
- A family assistance center has been set up for victims’ relatives.
Technical Investigation Details
Parties Involved
- Airlines & Aviation Authorities: PSA Airlines, FAA, and the Transportation Safety Board of Canada.
- Aircraft Manufacturers: GE Aerospace, Sikorsky (helicopter manufacturer).
- Unions & Aviation Groups: ALPA (Airline Pilots Association), NATCA (Air Traffic Controllers Association).
Working Groups Established
- Operations Group – Examining flight history, crew actions, and pre-crash events.
- Structures Group – Analyzing wreckage and impact angles.
- Powerplants Group – Assessing engine and mechanical components.
- Systems Group – Reviewing hydraulics, avionics, and instrumentation.
- Air Traffic Control Group – Investigating radar data and pilot communications.
- Survival Factors Group – Examining emergency procedures and crash survivability.
- Helicopter Group – Due to the involvement of a military Sikorsky helicopter.
- Human Performance Group – Evaluating fatigue, training, and external factors affecting crew performance.
Flight Data Recorders (Black Boxes)
- CRJ Aircraft & Sikorsky Helicopter equipped with recorders.
- None have been recovered yet but are believed to be intact underwater.
- Water recovery procedures are in place, and the NTSB is confident in retrieving usable data.
Challenges & Unanswered Questions
- Cause of the Crash:
- NTSB will not speculate until factual analysis is complete.
- Possibility of human error, mechanical failure, or ATC miscommunication is being evaluated.
- Altitude of Helicopter at Impact:
- Investigators are analyzing ATC radar logs and flight data.
- Air Traffic Control Staffing Issues:
- Reports suggest a controller may have been handling multiple tasks, under review.
- Emergency Procedures:
- No evidence yet that passengers used emergency slides or escaped into the water.
Next Steps & Timeline
- Black box retrieval expected soon.
- Debris mapping and analysis ongoing.
- Family briefings and support continue.
- Preliminary report expected within 30 days.
- A final report could take months but will include safety recommendations.
Conclusion
- The NTSB remains independent and focused on factual analysis.
- The goal is to prevent similar accidents in the future.
- More updates will be provided as information becomes available.
Flight 5342 Remembering Those We Lost
As of February 3, 2025, the following individuals have been publicly identified among the victims of the American Eagle Flight 5342 (Operated by PSA Airlines) Crash Victims mid-air collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. More information on the victims can be found in the following fox news article
Flight 5342 Crew Members:
Captain Jonathan Campos
Campos, aged 34, was the esteemed pilot of American Eagle Flight 5342, which tragically collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River near Washington, D.C., on January 29, 2025. This devastating accident resulted in the loss of all 67 individuals on board both aircraft.
Early Life and Education
Born in the Bronx, New York, Jonathan was raised in Brooklyn. He attended P.S. 90 and Intermediate School 303 in Coney Island before graduating from John Dewey High School in Gravesend in 2008. During his high school years, Jonathan developed a passion for aviation and was actively involved in various extracurricular activities, including marine science, music, scuba diving, snowboarding, and skydiving. His interest in flying was evident from a young age, and he was determined to pursue a career in aviation.
Aviation Career
In 2008, Jonathan moved to Florida to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in aeronautical science in 2015. Following his graduation, he worked as a flight instructor, sharing his knowledge and passion for flying with aspiring pilots. In 2018, Jonathan joined PSA Airlines, a subsidiary of American Airlines, as a pilot. He quickly advanced through the ranks, becoming a captain in 2022. His colleagues remembered him as a dedicated professional who loved his work and was always eager to mentor others.
Personal Life
Jonathan was known for his warm and friendly personality. He had a close-knit group of friends and was deeply committed to his family. Tragically, Jonathan lost his father, NYPD Police Officer Feliberto Campos Jr., at the age of 9. To honor his father’s memory, he had his father’s badge number, 4935, tattooed on his right shoulder and often carried the badge with him during flights. Jonathan’s longtime girlfriend, Ashley Childress, described him as someone who “did love everyone” and “would easily make friends.” They shared many adventures together, including scuba diving and attending gun shows.
Legacy and Tributes
Following the tragic accident, Jonathan was honored posthumously by PSA Airlines with the PSA Honorary President’s Award, the highest recognition within the airline. This award symbolizes the very best of the airline and is typically peer-nominated, reflecting the profound respect and admiration from his colleagues. A funeral Mass was held at The Shrine Church of St. Bernadette in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, where family, friends, and colleagues gathered to pay their respects. Dion Flannery, president of PSA Airlines, delivered a eulogy, stating, “Jonathan loved what he did. He will never be forgotten.” Jonathan was laid to rest at St. John’s Cemetery in Middle Village, Queens, alongside his father.
Captain Jonathan Campos’s dedication to aviation and his positive impact on those around him have left a lasting legacy. He is remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his kindness, mentorship, and passion for life.
First Officer Samuel Lilley
Aged 28, was the First Officer on American Eagle Flight 5342, which tragically collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River near Washington, D.C., on January 29, 2025. This devastating accident resulted in the loss of all 67 individuals on board both aircraft.
Early Life and Education
Sam was raised in Richmond Hill, Georgia, and graduated from Richmond Hill High School in 2015. He pursued higher education at Georgia Southern University, earning his degree in 2018. During his time at the university, Sam developed a passion for aviation, which led him to commence flight training in 2019.
Aviation Career
After completing his flight training, Sam joined PSA Airlines, a regional subsidiary of American Airlines, where he served as a First Officer for two years. He was recognized for his dedication and professionalism and was on the verge of being promoted to Captain.
Personal Life
Sam was recently engaged and had plans to marry later in the year. His father, Tim Lilley, is a former Army Black Hawk pilot and currently flies private jets, indicating that Sam followed in his father’s aviation footsteps.
Legacy and Tributes
In honor of his service and dedication, PSA Airlines posthumously awarded Sam the title of Honorary Captain. Additionally, he, along with his fellow crew members, received the PSA Honorary President’s Award, the highest recognition within the airline.
A public memorial service was held to celebrate Sam’s life and contributions to aviation.
First Officer Samuel Lilley is remembered for his passion for flying, his commitment to safety, and the positive impact he had on his colleagues and loved ones.
Flight Attendant Ian Epstein
Ian Epstein was a dedicated flight attendant based in Charlotte, North Carolina. He was known for his warm personality and commitment to his passengers. His family described him as a loving father, husband, and brother. Tragically, his death occurred just weeks before his daughter’s wedding.
Professional Life
Ian was recognized for his exceptional service and ability to connect with passengers. Colleagues and travelers alike remembered him for his positive demeanor and dedication to ensuring a pleasant flight experience. He often went above and beyond to make passengers feel comfortable and entertained during flights.
Tributes and Honors
Following the tragedy, Ian Epstein was honored with a water cannon salute at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, a gesture traditionally used to mark significant events in aviation. This tribute underscored the respect and admiration he garnered throughout his career.
In recognition of their service, Ian and his fellow crew members were posthumously awarded the PSA Honorary President’s Award, the highest distinction from PSA Airlines. This honor reflects their exceptional contributions to aviation and their unwavering commitment to passenger safety and comfort.
Ian Epstein’s legacy as a dedicated flight attendant and cherished family member continues to be remembered by those who knew him and the passengers he served.
Honoring Flight Attendant Ian Epstein
Flight Attendant Danasia Elder
Danasia was a dedicated flight attendant based in Charlotte, North Carolina. She was known for her kindness, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to her work. Colleagues remembered her as a friendly person with a beautiful smile and a true passion for flying. She loved her family tremendously and would light up whenever she spoke about them.
Family and Legacy
Danasia is survived by her husband and two children, aged 13 and 4. Her family described her as “full of life,” highlighting her love for God, her kids, and travel. A GoFundMe campaign was established to support her family during this difficult time.
Tributes and Honors
On February 8, 2025, the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office escorted Danasia’s remains back to Charlotte. Sheriff Garry McFadden stated, “We regard this as a professional honor and a personal privilege. This moment carries significant personal meaning for our agency in numerous ways, and we are honored to support Ms. Elder’s family as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.”
A funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, February 15, 2025, at University City Methodist Church in Charlotte. Family, friends, and colleagues will gather to honor Danasia’s memory and celebrate her life.
Danasia Elder’s dedication to her profession and her love for her family have left a lasting impact on all who knew her. She will be remembered for her warm spirit and commitment to serving others.
Flight 5342 U.S. Figure Skating Mourns the Loss of 28 Community Members
The crash of American Airlines Flight 5342 on January 29, 2025, claimed the lives of 28 members of the figure skating community. These individuals, including young skaters, dedicated coaches, and supportive family members, were returning from a developmental camp with the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas.
“These individuals were incredible athletes, caring and supportive family members, and coaches who worked tirelessly for their athletes,” said Samuel Auxier, interim CEO of U.S. Figure Skating. “They were beloved members of our global skating community, and we mourn their loss together.”
Coaches and Former Champions:
- Evgenia “Zhenya” Shishkova & Vadim Naumov – 1994 World Figure Skating Champions, coaches
- Alexandr “Sasha” Kirsanov – Figure skating coach
- Inna Volyanskaya – Former Soviet pair skater, coach
Young Skaters and Their Families:
- Jinna Han, 16 & Jin Han – Skater & mother
- Spencer Lane, 16 & Molly Lane – Skater & mother
- Brielle Beyer, 12 & Justyna Magdalena Beyer, 42 – Skater & mother
- Everly Livingston, 11 & Alydia Livingston, 13 – Skater & sister
- Donna Smojice Livingston, & husband Peter Livingston – Parents of Everly & Alydia
- Angela Yang 11 & Lily Yang– Skater & Mother
- Sean Kay (11) & Mother Julie Kay (42) – Support Vitali(Husband of Julie) and his children’s gofundme
Additional skating community members were aboard the flight, with U.S. Figure Skating confirming 28 victims (Recognizing the 28 Lost on Flight 5342 – Statement from Samuel Auxier).
Honoring Their Legacy
Skating clubs nationwide will hold moments of silence and tributes. A memorial event on March 2 at Capital One Arena will honor the victims, with proceeds benefiting affected families.
How You Can Help
U.S. Figure Skating has established the Family Support Fund to assist impacted families. Donations will provide counseling, memorial support, and long-term assistance.
To contribute, click here.
These skaters, coaches, and families were more than competitors—they were the heart of the skating community. Their passion and dedication will inspire generations to come.
Crew Members: U.S. Army Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk Helicopter Crash
The department of U.S Army identifies the three crew members of the Black Hawk helicopter involved in the mid-air collision:
- Captain Rebecca M. Lobach: Aviation officer from Durham, North Carolina. Pilot flying and undergoing her annual night evaluation flight.
- Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Loyd Eaves: 39 years old, from Great Mills, Maryland. Evaluator for Captain Lobach and pilot monitoring during the flight.
- Staff Sergeant Ryan Austin O’Hara: 28 years old, from Lilburn, Georgia. Crew chief on the Black Hawk helicopter.
Flight 5342 Remembering the Passangers
We will continue to update this list as more names become publicly available, honoring each individual and the impact they had on our community. Our goal is to remember their lives, support their families, and highlight opportunities to contribute to fundraisers and programs that provide assistance to those affected.
- Bob and Lori Schrock – Kansas residents
- Lindsay Fields – President-elect of the National Association of Biology Teachers, See Kansas Obituary
Remembrance: Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the families and friends as families of victims of the deadliest U.S. air disaster since 2001 visited the crash site Sunday, along the banks of the Potomac River near Reagan National Airport.
— FL360aero (@fl360aero) February 3, 2025
Dozens walked along the banks of… pic.twitter.com/SbRilHZj0R
Were You or Someone You Know Affected
N709PS Recovery Efforts After the Crash
Following the mid-air collision, both aircraft plunged into the Potomac River, prompting a swift emergency response. The Metropolitan Police Department and DC Fire and EMS immediately launched search and rescue operations, deploying fireboats and dive teams to the crash site.
The impact caused the plane to break into multiple pieces, now resting in approximately 5 to 8 feet of water. Divers have gained some access to the aircraft’s cabin and have begun recovering items, including luggage. Additionally, a dive team located one of the aircraft’s two black boxes, though it remains unclear whether it is the cockpit voice recorder or the flight data recorder.
The U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, while upside down in the water, appears to be mostly intact. Recovery efforts are ongoing as authorities work to retrieve all debris and further investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
N709PS Media Breifings & Statments
President Donald Trump has been briefed on the situation and referred to the crash as a “terrible accident,” expressing gratitude to emergency responders.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, who was sworn in just hours before the incident, has been actively coordinating the federal response to the mid-air collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. He has instructed the Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to provide full support to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and other agencies involved in the response. Secretary Duffy has also communicated with Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, and NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy to offer the department’s complete assistance. He expressed gratitude to all first responders conducting search and rescue operations.
N709PS Crash Details
As of January 29, 2025, the following information is available regarding the mid-air collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport:
Incident Overview:
Date and Time: The collision occurred on January 29, 2025, at approximately 9:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Location: The incident took place near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, over the Potomac River.
Aircraft Involved:
American Eagle Flight 5342:
- Aircraft Type: Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet.
- Operator: PSA Airlines, operating under the American Eagle brand.
- Registration: N709PS.
- Origin: Departed from Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport in Wichita, Kansas.
- Destination: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
- Occupants: The aircraft was carrying 60 passengers and 4 crew members, totaling 64 individuals.
U.S. Army Helicopter:
- Aircraft Type: Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter.
- Operator: United States Army.
- Callsign: PAT25
- Occupants: The helicopter was carrying 3 military personnel.
Sequence of Events:
While on approach to Runway 33 at Reagan National Airport, the CRJ700 collided mid-air with the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter.
Following the collision, both aircraft crashed into the Potomac River.
Emergency Response:
Multiple agencies, including the Metropolitan Police Department and DC Fire and EMS, initiated a search and rescue operation in the Potomac River. Fireboats were deployed to the scene.
All takeoffs and landings at Reagan National Airport were temporarily halted to facilitate the emergency response.
Casualties:
Authorities have reported that there are no survivors from the collision.
As of the latest reports, 28 bodies have been recovered from the Potomac River.
Notable Victims:
Among the deceased are former world champion figure skaters Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, who were returning from a National Development Camp in Wichita, Kansas.
Additionally, skaters Jinna Han and Spencer Lane, along with two of their parents, were also among the victims.
Investigation:
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation into the incident, with support from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the U.S. Department of Defense, and the U.S. Army.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is also assisting in the response, though there are no indications of terrorism or criminal activity.
Official Responses:
President Donald Trump has been briefed on the situation and referred to the crash as a “terrible accident,” expressing gratitude to emergency responders.
Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have stated that they are monitoring the incident.
Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas confirmed that the passenger plane was carrying approximately 60 individuals and collided with a military helicopter.
Please note that this is an ongoing situation, and information may change as more details become available.
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Tragic news out of DCA as we learn more about the devastating plane crash. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and everyone affected by this heartbreaking event.#planecrash #aviation pic.twitter.com/e1NtEUYUW0
— Ramos Law - Aviation (@Ramos_Aviation) January 30, 2025
Experts in Aviation Law
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