On January 29, 2025, American Airlines Flight 5342 collided mid-air with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, killing all 67 people aboard both aircraft. As of January 31, recovery teams have retrieved the remains of 41 victims, with 28 identified.
Among the victims were teenage figure skaters Everly (14) and Alydia (11) Livingston, along with their parents, who were returning from an ice skating camp. Captain Rebecca M. Lobach, 28, was identified as one of the soldiers on the helicopter.
Flight recorders from both aircraft were recovered in good condition. Preliminary investigations suggest potential issues with air traffic control procedures and staffing at Reagan National Airport. Recovery efforts are ongoing as authorities continue to investigate the cause of this tragic incident.
