Donald Trump raises alarming question as ‘multiple killed’ after American Airlines plane collided with helicopter mid-air

Donald Trump has raised concerns about what led to the tragic crash of an American Airlines plane last night, January 29.

At least 19 bodies have been recovered so far after a PSA Airlines jet, operating as American Airlines Flight 5432, collided in mid-air with a military helicopter around 9:00 pm local time. The passenger plane, a Bombardier CRJ700, had taken off from Wichita, Kansas, and was heading to Washington, D.C. The helicopter, a Sikorsky H-60, had departed from Fort Belvoir, Virginia. There were 60 passengers and four crew members on board the plane, while the helicopter had three soldiers on board.

Former President Donald Trump said he was briefed about the accident and expressed his gratitude to the first responders for their quick and courageous efforts. However, he also questioned how such a crash could have happened, suggesting that it should have been avoided.

In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump wrote that the airplane was on a routine and normal approach to the airport. He pointed out that the helicopter was flying directly toward the plane for a long time and questioned why it didn’t change its direction. He emphasized that the night was clear and the plane’s lights were very visible. Trump wondered why the helicopter didn’t go up, down, or turn to avoid the collision. He also criticized air traffic control, asking why they didn’t give the helicopter clear instructions instead of just asking if they saw the plane. He ended his message by calling the situation “not good” and saying that it seemed preventable. Later, he posted again, calling it a terrible night and sending prayers to those affected.

American Airlines has released air traffic control audio from the moments after the crash. In the recording, officials can be heard confirming that both the helicopter and the plane crashed into a river. One air traffic controller described seeing a fireball before everything disappeared. Another person estimated that the crash happened about half a mile from the airport approach.

American Airlines issued a statement confirming that Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, was involved in the accident while flying from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington, D.C. The airline stated that their main concern is for the passengers and crew involved, and they are working with authorities and emergency responders. They also provided a toll-free number for family members who may have had loved ones on board. People in the U.S. can call 800-679-8215, while those outside the country can find more contact numbers on the airline’s website. Families in Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands can also use the same toll-free number to seek information.