Following the devastating mid-air collision over the Potomac River, Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, renowned for his 2009 Hudson River landing, shared his perspective on the tragic incident. In an interview with The New York Times, he expressed his dismay, emphasizing the importance of learning from such events to prevent future tragedies. He pointed out the increased challenges of night flying, acknowledging the potential impact of reduced visibility, though cautioning against premature conclusions about the specific cause.

The collision, involving an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines aircraft near Reagan National Airport, claimed the lives of all 67 individuals on board. Search and rescue efforts transitioned into recovery operations as authorities confirmed the grim reality of no survivors. Chief John Donnelly of the District of Columbia Fire Department delivered the somber update, marking a shift from hope to the difficult task of recovering remains.

Rescue operations underway at the Potomac River wreckage site near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

Wreckage visible at dawn as search efforts continue in the Potomac River.

President Donald Trump addressed the nation, describing the event as a profoundly dark moment in the nation's history. He offered condolences and expressed the shared hope that the victims found solace in faith. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the helicopter crew's experience and their engagement in a routine annual night evaluation, noting their use of night vision goggles. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, newly sworn in, stated that pre-crash conditions appeared standard and pledged a thorough investigation to provide answers to grieving families and the public.

Passengers of US Airways Flight 1549 on the wings of the plane after Captain Sully's successful Hudson River landing in 2009.

Captain Sullenberger's own experience involved successfully landing a disabled Airbus A320 in the Hudson River in 2009 after a bird strike, saving all 155 passengers. This remarkable feat, widely known as the "Miracle on the Hudson," was later immortalized in the film "Sully."