WASHINGTON, D.C. – AUTHORITIES in Washington, D.C., are investigating how a commercial airplane and a Black Hawk helicopter collided near Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia, killing at least 27 people.
The crash happened around 9:30 p.m. local time when an American Airlines plane was approaching for landing. The aircraft struck the helicopter, triggering a massive explosion before plunging into the frigid waters of the Potomac River, which separates Washington, D.C., and Virginia.
At a press conference early Monday morning (Jan. 29), state and federal officials confirmed that the operation had shifted from rescue to recovery due to the risk of hypothermia in the cold water.
Following the collision, authorities issued a ground stop, halting all flights at the airport. Officials now say operations are expected to resume around 11:00 a.m. local time.
Meanwhile, details are emerging about those onboard. U.S. Figure Skating confirmed that some of its athletes were returning to D.C. from an event from Kansas.
"These athletes, coaches, and family members were returning home from the National Development Camp held in conjunction with the US Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas," the statement read.
The Russian government also acknowledged that several of its figure skaters were among the passengers.
Officials are expected to provide further updates as the investigation continues.
