US Mid-Air Crash: Air Traffic Audio and Radar Revelations Moments Before The Crash

“Air Traffic Control Audio and Radar Reveal Harrowing Moments Before Collision; Recovery Operations Underway”

January 31 2025: A devastating mid-air collision between an American Airlines passenger jet and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter has claimed over 60 lives, authorities confirmed. The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday night near Reagan Washington National Airport, with both aircraft crashing into the Potomac River. Rescue operations are underway to recover all 67 bodies from the wreckage.

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The American Eagle Flight 5342, traveling from Wichita, Kansas, carried 60 passengers and four crew members, including elite figure skaters and their coaches. Among the deceased were former Russian world pairs champions Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov. The military helicopter, call sign PAT25, had three personnel onboard.

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Footage from an air traffic control radar screen captured the critical moments leading to the collision. The radar shows the Black Hawk helicopter veering into the flight path of the CRJ700 Bombardier jet just before impact. The viral 49-second clip has shocked viewers globally, offering a chilling glimpse into the fatal accident.

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Audio recordings from LiveATC.net provide further insight into the moments leading up to the collision. An air traffic controller can be heard instructing the helicopter to pass behind the jet, followed by gasps and shock as the crash unfolded. “I just saw a fireball, and then it was gone,” a controller reported. The tragic event led to the immediate suspension of operations at Reagan National Airport.

The plane’s pilot, identified as 28-year-old Sam Lilley, had six years of experience and was engaged to be married.

Authorities, including the National Transportation Safety Board, are investigating the incident, with recovery and analysis continuing amidst freezing temperatures.

Tags:
US Plane Crash, Potomac River Tragedy, Air Traffic Control Radar, Washington Aviation Accident, American Airlines Crash, Black Hawk Helicopter Collision, Reagan National Airport Incident, Air Traffic Control Audio, Elite Figure Skaters Fatal Crash, Aviation Disaster Recovery