Ronald Reagan National Airport has halted operations due to an “aircraft emergency”
A small aircraft collided with a helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Wednesday night, leading to the suspension of all flights and triggering a large-scale emergency response.
DC Fire and EMS confirmed on X that a small aircraft had gone down in the Potomac River near the airport, with fireboats and other emergency personnel responding to the scene. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) also reported an “apparent air crash” and confirmed that multiple agencies were conducting a search and rescue operation in the river.
“A multi-agency search and rescue operation is underway in the Potomac River after an aircraft crash,” MPD stated on X. The department also clarified that its own helicopter was not involved in the incident but was assisting in the response efforts.
The airport announced that all takeoffs and landings were halted due to an “aircraft emergency”. However, the terminal remained open to passengers.
Authorities have not yet provided details regarding the types of the aircraft involved, cause of the collision or the condition of those involved. Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area to allow emergency personnel to perform their duties without hindrance.
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