WASHINGTON, D.C. – So far about 30 of the 67 bodies have been recovered from the mid-air crash between a commercial plane and a military helicopter near Washington, D.C. That crash happened Wednesday night. On Thursday, officials said divers have searched all areas that are accessible and will continue their investigation and recovery efforts on Friday. Travelers passing through Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) where the crash occurred, said they’re heartbroken for the victims and their families.
“I was traveling from Louisville, Kentucky back home here to DCA and just found out about the tragic crash,” said DCA passenger Sharrarne Morton.
Travelers coming home or passing through DCA are devastated about the mid-air crash that happened here Wednesday night.
“Also very sad for the families who were waking up this morning and realizing that they had lost people overnight which is so sad to me,” said DCA passenger Katy Wong. “I also work for an airline so I can only imagine what they’re going through with this terrible, terrible tragedy.”
“We were very nervous about flying,” said Morton. “I’m always nervous about flying but especially today but I was really- just determined to keep the crash victims and their families in my prayers because that was just such devastating news.”
The flight from Wichita, Kansas, which was operated by America Airlines, was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. It was approaching to land at DCA when it collided with an army Blackhawk helicopter. The helicopter was carrying three service members. Officials said no one survived the crash.
Crews from all over raced to the Potomac River. The dark, cold and windy conditions made the search for bodies more difficult. As questions of how this crash happened remain under investigation, passengers we spoke with encourage people to look out for one another during this difficult time.
“Just hoping we can really find some solutions so this never ever happens again,” said Wong.
“Every day is priceless and live everyday fully,” said Morton. “And tell everyone you love them because you never know when the last day with your family will be. So, again my prayers go out to the crash victims and their families.”
The NTSB does not want to speculate on the cause of the crash. They are looking at all factors in their investigation and expect to release a preliminary report within 30 days .
