Passenger Flight and Army Helicopter Collide Near DC, Leaving No Survivors

An American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Blackhawk helicopter collided near Ronald Reagan National Airport late on Wednesday. All 67 people on board the two crafts were killed. 

The Details: American Eagle Flight 5342 was en route from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, D.C., when it collided with a military helicopter engaged in a training flight over the Potomac River. The crash is the first major commercial air accident in the U.S. in 16 years. The helicopter was reportedly flying 100 feet above its approved level and at least half a mile off its approved route. 

Key Quotes: President Donald Trump criticized Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) efforts at the Federal Aviation Administration, said the crash “looks like it should have been prevented,” and questioned, “Why didn’t the helicopter go up or down, or turn.” 

How the Media Covered It: Trump's comments on DEI were a significant focus of coverage across the spectrum, with some sources seeking to justify or critique his comments. Updated 1/31/25 at 10:23 am ET