President Trump, lawmakers react to Reagan National Airport crash
Lawmakers from all across the United States were left reeling with sympathy and grief following a tragic incident that occurred near Reagan National Airport in the Washington, D.C. area on Wednesday night. The incident involved a collision between a passenger plane and a military helicopter, sending shockwaves through the aviation community.
According to reports from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet, operating as an American Airlines flight, collided in midair with a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter that was approaching Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia, around 9 p.m. local time. The passenger flight had departed from Wichita, Kansas, earlier that day and was carrying 60 individuals. However, the exact number of injuries and fatalities resulting from the collision has not been officially confirmed.
Newly appointed Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who had just started his role on Monday, took to Twitter to express his awareness of the incident. He assured that the Department of Defense (DoD) was actively monitoring the situation and ready to provide assistance if needed. Offering prayers for all those involved, Hegseth’s tweet reflected the somber mood surrounding the tragic event.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed that he was at the FAA building, actively investigating the incident. Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt shared a message from President Donald Trump, who had been briefed on the accident and extended his condolences to the victims and their families. Trump also commended the efforts of the first responders involved in the aftermath of the collision.
Reacting to the news, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna from Florida expressed her deep sorrow over the crash, offering prayers for all the families affected by the tragic event. Similarly, Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears expressed solidarity with those impacted, keeping them in her thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced on social media that every available US Coast Guard resource was being deployed for search and rescue efforts in response to the incident at Reagan National Airport. She assured the public that they were closely monitoring the situation and stood ready to support local responders, while sending prayers for the victims and first responders involved.
As investigations into the crash continue, authorities are working diligently to gather more information about the circumstances surrounding the collision. Efforts are underway to piece together the sequence of events that led to this devastating incident.
In conclusion, the tragic collision near Reagan National Airport has sent shockwaves through the aviation community and beyond. Lawmakers, government officials, and first responders are united in their efforts to support the victims and their families during this challenging time. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks and challenges inherent in air travel, underscoring the importance of safety measures and vigilance in the aviation industry.
