Kathmandu, Jan 30: A devastating mid-air collision between a passenger plane and a military helicopter in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night has led to a massive rescue operation in the Potomac River.

The crash involved a US Airlines CRJ 700 Bombardier jet carrying 64 people, including four crew members, and an Army Black Hawk (H-60) helicopter with three people on board. According to CBS News, at least 18 bodies have been recovered so far, and no survivors have been found.

The Washington Fire Department reported that the collision occurred near Ronald Reagan National Airport around 9 p.m. The American Airlines jet was en route from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington when it struck the military helicopter. Emergency services received multiple distress calls around 8:50 p.m., prompting an immediate response.

The wreckage of both aircraft is submerged in the Potomac River, which has an average depth of 24 feet. Authorities fear that some passengers may have been swept away by the river’s currents, and over 300 rescue workers, including divers, are engaged in the search efforts.

President Donald Trump acknowledged the tragedy in a post on his Truth Social platform, questioning how the collision occurred despite clear night conditions and operational aircraft lights. White House spokeswoman Carolyn Levitt confirmed that the president is closely monitoring the situation and has urged calm while directing full-scale rescue operations.

Vice President JD Bhansle expressed condolences and called for prayers for the victims and their families. Meanwhile, Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas stated that his team is in contact with authorities regarding the incident.

The National Weather Service has warned that survivors in the water could face life-threatening conditions, as temperatures in Washington hover around freezing. Hypothermia could set in within 20 to 30 minutes, making the rescue mission even more urgent.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the crash occurred as the CRJ 700 Bombardier was approaching Runway 33 at Reagan National Airport. The aircraft, typically used for regional flights, has a passenger capacity of 68 to 73.

All flight operations at the airport have been suspended as investigations continue into the cause of the collision.