President Donald Trump has taken to Truth Social to express his thoughts on the recent plane crash that occurred in Washington, D.C. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has provided initial insights, and Vice President JD Vance has also shared his condolences.

On January 29, 2025, around 9 p.m., a tragic accident unfolded near Reagan Washington Airport involving a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet and a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter. The FAA reports the collision happened as the jet came in to land on Runway 33.
The plane, operating as Flight 5342 for American Airlines, had departed from Wichita, Kansas. While the FAA supports the ongoing investigation, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the inquiry. Updates will continue to flow as more details emerge.
In his statement, President Trump noted that the regional jet was on a standard approach and questioned why safety protocols failed to prevent the collision with the helicopter. He emphasized the importance of addressing this situation promptly.
Expressing his gratitude for the efforts of first responders and delivering his condolences to the families affected, Trump urged the public to remain informed as updates become available.
At the White House, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt discussed the administration’s commitment to aiding those impacted and confirmed that President Trump is actively involved in overseeing the response.
Vice President JD Vance shared a somber message, urging everyone to pray for those involved, as the administration monitors developments.
As the incident continues to be assessed, media outlets remain on the ground to provide ongoing coverage. Reports state that both aircraft’s remnants are being searched for in the Potomac River. A concerted effort involving emergency responders is underway despite challenging conditions.
Efforts are focused on searching for survivors amid freezing waters and difficult weather conditions. While the search goes on, the wreckage of the plane lays submerged and a helicopter was found upside down but largely intact.
Flight tracking data highlights both aircraft were on descent paths toward the airport but from opposite directions, leading to the collision. Experts suggest that the Traffic Collision Avoidance System may not have been able to alert the pilots in time due to the aircraft’s low altitude.
Recoveries are underway, with numerous bodies found, as the difficult circumstances on the Potomac limit rescue operations. The impact of the crash on the victims’ families is profound, with some, like Hamaad Raza, anxiously waiting for updates on their loved ones.
Statements of sorrow and support have come from officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Kansas Senator Roger Marshall. Communities within the vicinity, like Alexandria, Virginia, are extending their thoughts and prayers to all affected.
This tragic event recalls the 2009 Buffalo crash, with the hope that survivors can be found amidst the current challenges. While the rescue operations continue, prayers and hopes echo for all those impacted by this devastating incident.