Donald Trump makes statement after tragic American Airlines crash

US President Donald Trump sent his condolences to those impacted by the American Airlines crash, saying his wishes for God to bless their souls. He also expressed frustration that the incident wasn't prevented.

The aircraft collided with a military helicopter participating in a training exercise close to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in the United States capital. The plane, carrying 64 people including crew, reportedly split into two sections and sank about seven feet underwater in the Potomac River next to the airport terminal.

Addressing the tragic event, one of the most significant aviation disasters in the US in approximately 40 years, President Trump said: "I have been fully briefed on the terrible accident which just took place at Reagan National Airport.

"May God Bless their souls. Thank you for the incredible work being done by our first responders. I am monitoring the situation and will provide more details as they arise."

In a subsequent message, President Trump questioned how the collision happened. He wrote: "The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport.

"The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time. It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing, why didn't the helicopter go up or down, or turn.

"Why didn't the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane. This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD! ! ! "

The statement was issued amidst ongoing emergency service efforts to conduct an extensive search and rescue mission along the Potomac River, with fears mounting over the potential loss of life. The airport has announced a suspension of all landings and take-offs until at least 5am on Friday after a Bombardier CRJ700 aircraft collided with a Sikorsky H-60 Blackhawk helicopter during its approach to Runway 33, reports the Mirror.

Vice President JD Vance took to social media to express his concern: "Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan airport this evening. We're monitoring the situation, but for now let's hope for the best."

The American Airlines flight, originating from Wichita, Kansas, was in the process of landing when it struck the military helicopter at approximately 9pm on Wednesday.

DC Police said: "At 8.53pm, multiple calls were received for an aircraft crash above the Potomac River. DC Fire and EMS, the Metropolitan Police Department and multiple partner agencies are currently coordinating a search and rescue operation in the Potomac River. There is no confirmed information on casualties at this time."

In a message to X, the airport added: "All take-offs and landings have been halted at DCA. Emergency personnel are responding to an aircraft incident on the airfield. The terminal remains open. Will update."