Trump said Black Hawk was ’flying too high’ in fatal collision

Published 31/01/2025, 14:27
Updated 31/01/2025, 14:35
Trump said Black Hawk was ’flying too high’ in fatal collision

President Donald Trump weighed in on the tragic midair collision that occurred Wednesday between a passenger jet and a Black Hawk helicopter, resulting in both aircraft crashing into the Potomac River near Reagan National Airport, close to Washington, D.C. The accident claimed the lives of all individuals on both aircraft.

Trump suggested that the Black Hawk helicopter was at fault, stating, "The Blackhawk helicopter was flying too high, by a lot. It was far above the 200 foot limit. That’s not really too complicated to understand, is it???"

The passenger plane involved was American Eagle Flight No. 5342, a regional jetliner that had departed from Wichita, Kansas. On board were 60 passengers and four crew members. In addition, the U.S. Army’s Sikorsky H-60 helicopter was carrying three soldiers, according to a Defense Department official.

The collision has sparked an investigation to determine the precise cause and the sequence of events leading up to the crash. Authorities are gathering evidence and will be examining flight data, weather conditions, and any communication between the aircraft and air traffic control.

The incident has raised concerns about air traffic safety, particularly in the heavily trafficked airspace around the nation’s capital. The loss of life has also prompted an outpouring of condolences from officials and the public alike.

As the investigation continues, further details are expected to emerge about the circumstances surrounding this catastrophic event. The focus remains on understanding how this collision occurred and preventing future incidents of a similar nature.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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