American Airlines stock (AAL) took a significant hit following a tragic mid-air collision between an American Airlines flight operated by its subsidiary, PSA Airlines, and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River. The crash, which occurred Thursday morning, has led to ongoing recovery efforts, but officials have indicated that they expect no survivors from either aircraft.
The American Airlines flight, which was traveling from Wichita, Kansas, to Washington D.C.’s Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA), collided with the military helicopter during what appeared to be routine operations. The Black Hawk was reportedly carrying three soldiers on a training mission.
At a press briefing, American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims. “We’re absolutely heartbroken for the family and loved ones of the passengers and crew members and also for those that were on the military aircraft,” Isom said. “Our thoughts are with all those affected, and we are fully cooperating with authorities as the investigation into the cause of this tragic incident continues.”
As recovery operations continue, authorities have confirmed that 28 bodies have been recovered, with 27 coming from the American Airlines flight and one from the Black Hawk helicopter. Among the passengers on the PSA Airlines flight were US Figure Skating athletes, their family members, and coaches, which has added a layer of sorrow to an already devastating event.
The cause of the collision remains under investigation, with no definitive conclusions yet. American Airlines has pledged full cooperation with the ongoing inquiry. The crash has drawn responses from key figures including newly confirmed US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, and President Donald Trump, all of whom have expressed their condolences and assured that every effort will be made to uncover the cause of the incident.
While the investigation continues, the crash has sent shockwaves through both the aviation and military communities, with questions regarding safety protocols and airspace coordination. Experts are closely monitoring the situation, and American Airlines’ stock has already felt the impact of the disaster, with shares showing a notable decline as of Thursday afternoon.
The American public, as well as those connected to the passengers and crew members, are left to await answers while mourning the loss of those involved in this heartbreaking tragedy.