Flight Operations Resume at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport Following Deadly Midair Collision
January 30, 2025, 1:20 PM EST
Flight operations resumed at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Thursday morning after a deadly midair collision involving an American Airlines jet and a military helicopter temporarily halted air travel in the area. The incident prompted airlines to issue travel fee waivers for affected passengers as recovery efforts unfolded.
Airlines Offer Travel Waivers
United Airlines announced that it had implemented a waiver for travelers booked on flights arriving at or departing from Reagan National Airport. This waiver allows passengers with flights scheduled through Saturday to reschedule their trips without incurring change fees or fare differences.
In addition, Delta Air Lines issued a travel waiver for individuals traveling on Thursday to and from Reagan National Airport, as well as Washington Dulles International Airport and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. The waivers are intended to accommodate travelers impacted by the ongoing recovery efforts following the tragic midair collision.
Details of the Collision
The accident involved American Eagle Flight 5342, which was en route from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, D.C. American Airlines confirmed that the flight had 60 passengers and four crew members on board and was operated by its regional subsidiary, PSA Airlines.
The midair collision occurred near the airport and led to a crash into the Potomac River, where emergency response teams quickly mobilized for rescue operations. U.S. flag imagery could be seen in the area as search and rescue units worked diligently at the site of the crash.
Shift from Rescue to Recovery Efforts
As of Thursday, authorities acknowledged that the search for survivors had transitioned to a recovery operation. According to Fire and EMS Chief John A. Donnelly, officials do not anticipate any survivors. So far, recovery teams have successfully recovered at least 27 bodies from the river.
United Airlines Supports Recovery Efforts
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby released a statement expressing the company’s ongoing support for American Airlines and emphasizing their commitment to assist in any way possible. The airline industry as a whole has shown solidarity in the wake of this tragic event.
Airport Operations and Passenger Information
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport officials reported that flight operations were back to normal by 11 a.m. on Thursday, with all airport roads and terminals reopening. However, due to delays and cancellations stemming from the incident, travelers are encouraged to check with their respective airlines for specific flight information.
Authorities continue to investigate the specifics surrounding the collision and the communication between the two aircraft at the time of the accident. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is likely to play a significant role in the ongoing investigation, alongside federal and local emergency responders.
As the situation develops, affected families, travelers, and airline personnel await more information from the authorities involved in this tragic incident.
————————————————————————
Follow the Bimoseto family as we explore the world, one delicious dish at a time! Get our travel tips, restaurant recommendations, and adventure stories – and get inspired for your journeys!