In the U.S., a passenger plane collided with a military helicopter and crashed into a river.

Near Ronald Reagan National Airport close to Washington (USA), a passenger plane collided with a military helicopter.

This was reported by the Federal Aviation Administration of the United States.

According to preliminary information, a Bombardier CRJ700 operated by PSA Airlines, flying from Kansas, collided in the air with a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter during landing at approximately 9:00 PM local time, writes the airport’s press service on social media platform X.

All departures and landings have been suspended,

After the collision, the aircraft, which had 64 people on board, fell into the Potomac River, reports CNN. The helicopter, with three crew members, was conducting a training flight.

CBS News, citing police, claims that at least 18 bodies have already been found in the Potomac.

In addition, NBC News reports that the water temperature in the river is currently 35 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 1.5 degrees Celsius). “At such a temperature, a person loses consciousness within 15–30 minutes,” the publication states.

A rescue operation is ongoing at the site.

Ronald Reagan National Airport is closed due to the “emergency situation.” The situation has already been reported to U.S. President Donald Trump.

“Many agencies are currently working on this response, with both federal and local law enforcement working together on-site to try to save as many lives as possible. The President will continue to monitor this situation,” said White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

U.S. President Donald Trump responded to the aviation disaster on social media platform X.

“God bless their souls,” the message states.

Background. Earlier, Mind reported that in Aktau in the west, a passenger plane operated by Azerbaijan Airlines crashed during landing.