Daily operations have resumed at Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., following a tragic collision over the Potomac River that claimed the lives of all 67 passengers aboard an American Airlines jet. The jet collided with a military helicopter in the early hours of yesterday, leading to immediate suspension of all flights and launching a massive emergency response.
Airport authorities confirmed that flights began departing and arriving as scheduled after thorough safety inspections were conducted. \"We extend our deepest condolences to the families affected by this tragic incident,\" said an airport spokesperson. \"Our priority remains the safety and security of our passengers and staff.\"
The collision occurred during the jet's approach to the airport when it unexpectedly intersected the flight path of a military helicopter conducting routine operations in the area. Both aircraft were destroyed on impact, and there were no survivors from the commercial jet. The status of the military personnel aboard the helicopter has not been disclosed.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a full investigation into the cause of the collision. \"We are working diligently to understand how this incident occurred,\" stated an NTSB official. \"Our teams are collecting evidence and data from the crash site to determine the factors that led to this tragedy.\"
Witnesses near the Potomac River reported hearing a loud explosion and seeing plumes of smoke following the collision. \"It was a horrifying sight,\" said a local resident. \"Debris fell into the river, and emergency services arrived swiftly.\"
CGTN's Nathan King reported from outside the airport, providing live updates as the situation unfolded. The incident has raised concerns over air traffic control and flight safety protocols in the busy airspace around the nation's capital.
As operations at Ronald Reagan National Airport return to normal, heightened security measures and additional safety checks have been implemented. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for any delays and to allow extra time for security screenings.
The aviation community is mourning the loss of life, while calls for a review of airspace management and communication between military and civilian air traffic controllers are increasing. The incident underscores the critical importance of coordination in shared airspaces to prevent future tragedies.
