American Airlines Flight Crashes into Potomac River Near Reagan National Airport

An American Airlines flight tragically crashed into the Potomac River on January 29, 2025, shortly after departing from Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C. Flight 432, which was carrying a group of figure skaters returning from a training camp in Lake Placid, New York, encountered difficulties shortly after takeoff. Witnesses reported seeing flames and smoke before the plane descended into the river around 2:45 PM. Eyewitness Andy Thompson said, “I saw the plane go down; there was a loud explosion and then a big splash. It was horrifying.” The aircraft, a Boeing 737, was reportedly carrying 150 passengers and crew. Emergency responders were immediately dispatched, and rescue operations commenced promptly with divers entering the water to search for survivors. Local authorities confirmed that at least 20 people were rescued, with several sustaining injuries. National Transportation Safety Board officials have announced an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash. American Airlines expressed their condolences in a statement, stating, “We are deeply saddened by this incident and are working closely with authorities to account for our passengers and crew.”