A midair collision near Reagan National Airport led to a massive search and rescue operation in the freezing Potomac River. Newly released air traffic control audio captures the chilling moments before, during, and after the crash, offering key insights into the tragic incident.

A search and rescue operation unfolded after an American Airlines passenger jet collided midair with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

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An American Airlines 737 Max plane. | Source: Getty Images

The crash, which sent the American Airlines aircraft plunging into the freezing Potomac River, resulted in confirmed fatalities,though at the time of reporting, no survivors had been recovered.

Authorities halted all operations at the airport until at least 11 a.m. ET Thursday as first responders worked tirelessly at the crash site.

Mayor Muriel Bowser speaking at a press conference with other government officials on the rescue efforts following a collision between an American Airlines plane and an Army helicopter in Washington, D.C. on January 30, 2025. | Source: Getty Images

American Airlines Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, had departed from Wichita, Kansas, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members.

The Black Hawk helicopter, with three soldiers on board, was conducting a training flight when the collision occurred. According to aviation and defense officials, the plane was in pieces in the water, and the helicopter was found nearby.

DC Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly speaking at a press conference with other government officials on the rescue efforts following a collision between an American Airlines plane and an Army helicopter in Washington, D.C. on January 30, 2025. | Source: Getty Images