30.01.2025 08:40
Following the collision between a passenger plane preparing to land in the United States and a military helicopter, at least 18 bodies have been recovered. The last conversation between the control tower and the helicopter involved in the accident has also emerged after the horrific crash.
A passenger plane attempting to land at Reagan Washington National Airport in the U.S. has crashed into the Potomac River after colliding with a military helicopter, and the toll of the accident is becoming clearer.
According to information obtained from law enforcement, search efforts in the river have recovered the bodies of 18 individuals. It has been reported that no survivors have been rescued alive yet, and search operations are ongoing.
LAST CONVERSATIONS BEFORE THE COLLISION REVEALED
Following the accident, a recording of air traffic control obtained by CNN revealed that air traffic controllers asked whether the helicopter was in the line of sight of the commercial flight.
Shortly after the air traffic controller asked the helicopter, "PAT 2-5, is the CRJ in your line of sight?" they instructed, "PAT 2-5, proceed behind the CRJ." The collision occurred shortly after these words.
The tower then reported the incident to another pilot. The controller was recorded saying, "I don't know if you noticed what happened earlier, but there was a collision at the approach end of 33. If you want to return to the gate, we will be suspending operations for an indefinite period. I strongly advise you to coordinate with the company. Let me know what you would like to do."