At least 18 people have died in a plane crash in Washington DC, USA. A passenger plane that was preparing to land at the Ronald Reagan Airport in Washington DC collided with an army helicopter in the sky.
Citing police officials, CBS News reported that rescue operations are ongoing and the death toll may rise. According to the BBC, about 300 emergency rescuers, police divers and boats have been mobilized for rescue.
It is reported that the rescue was difficult due to the night time and the low temperature in Washington. DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services Chief John A. Donnelly Sr. said rescues were difficult because of the dark and murky water, according to CNN.
The flight from Wichita, Kansas, with 4 crew and 60 passengers on board collided with a helicopter on runway 33 for landing.
According to the US Federal Civil Aviation Authority (FAA), an American Airlines plane that was preparing to land at 9 pm local time crashed into the Potomac River after colliding with a helicopter.
The plane crashed into two pieces and fell into the river . According to the media, the crashed helicopter overturned and fell into the river. It is said that there are three soldiers in the army's 'Black Hawk' helicopter used for training.
According to the BBC, the helicopter took off from Fort Belvoir in the state of Virginia. US officials have stated that the incident is being investigated.
After the accident, Ronald Reagan Airport was closed and the planes arriving there were sent to Dallas International Airport. Officials have announced that DC Metro trains will run late at night to provide convenience to air passengers.
The neighboring state of Maryland will also assist in search and rescue operations at the accident site. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has also said it will assist in the investigation.
US President Donald Trump has praised the emergency rescue work that he was immediately informed about the terrible accident. "I am monitoring the situation and will provide details when more information comes," he said.
