Federal officials are investigating the actions of a military pilot following a midair collision between an Army helicopter and an American Eagle flight that resulted in the death of 67 people. The tragic incident occurred when the helicopter flew into the path of the jet as it was landing at Ronald Reagan National Airport. Among the victims were figure skaters, coaches, and family members returning from a development camp after the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita. The Skating Club of Boston confirmed that six people associated with their organization died in the crash.
During a community prayer service in Wichita, religious leaders urged residents to grieve together and provide comfort during this time of uncertainty. The city is directing families seeking information about the crash to contact American Airlines directly. The Federal Aviation Administration report revealed that control tower staffing was not normal at the time of the collision, and the helicopter’s maximum allowed altitude at the time was a potential factor in the crash.
President Trump expressed condolences for the victims but also criticized the Biden administration and diversity efforts at the FAA. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy indicated that there were early indicators of what caused the crash, suggesting it could have been prevented. The midair collision occurred in highly monitored airspace just south of the White House and the Capitol. American Airlines Flight 5342 was inbound to Reagan National when the tragic incident occurred.
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