Esther Salifu
President Tinubu has extended his condolences to the families of the victims, the people of the United States, and all those affected by the tragic mid-air collision between a passenger plane and a military helicopter near Reagan National Airport in Washington D.C.
A passenger plane and a military helicopter collided in mid-air near Ronald Reagan National Airport, resulting in the loss of 67 lives. According to reports from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Al Jazeera, the devastating incident occurred at approximately 9 p.m. local time.
In a post on his X handle Tinubu said: “On behalf of Nigeria, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the people of the United States, and all affected by this profound loss. I commend the courageous efforts of first responders and emergency teams for their selfless work in harsh conditions”.
The president further praised the courageous efforts of first responders and emergency teams, adding that Nigeria stands in solidarity with the United States Government and its people, united in grief and hopeful for a new day.
The plane, carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, was approaching the airport after flying from Wichita, Kansas, when the collision happened. The military helicopter had three personnel on board. Unfortunately, US officials have confirmed that there are likely no survivors, with 28 bodies recovered so far, including one from the helicopter.
The aircraft involved in the collision were identified as a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700, operating as American Airlines Flight, and a US Army Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter.
