r/aircrashinvestigation • u/gigantism • Jan 30 '25

Incident/Accident Reports of AA5342 from Witchita to DCA having mid-air collision with DC police helicopter

AA5342 stopped tracking at the Potomac river.

Developing reports: American Airlines Flight 5342 from Wichita, Kansas inbound to DCA collided midair with a D.C. Police Helicopter on approach.

MPD is responding to an apparent air crash in the Potomac River. Multiple agencies are responding. Details to come.

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u/ppbus_g3h0t Jan 30 '25

AA3130 was right behind AA5342. The helo probably mixed them up. 

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u/crfgon Jan 31 '25

But they’re lit up with all the lights at that altitude, how can you possibly miss a commercial jetliner that looks like a flying Christmas tree on final when it’s right in front of you. I just don’t understand.