A New Jersey airline passenger allegedly told a flight attendant "I will really break your f----- jaw n----!" before threatening a pilot "six inches from his face" after the plane he was traveling on landed in Newark, federal prosecutors say. 

Luis Vaquero, 27, of Passaic County is now facing a federal charge following the "harrowing flight" Sunday from Miami, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Jersey. 

Federal prosecutors say the alleged passenger meltdown began shortly after takeoff when Vaquero started "threatening and harassing various passengers, including making threats of physical violence toward a disabled minor and mocking a group of Jewish passengers. 

"Vaquero also threatened a flight crew member who declined to serve Vaquero alcohol after the beverage service window closed, telling her, "You better watch out, s--- is gonna happen to you," the attorney’s office said. 

FLIGHT PASSENGER ‘BULLIED’ AFTER REFUSING TO SWAP WITH SEAT SQUATTER, TRIGGERS REACTIONS ON SOCIAL MEDIA 

"Upon landing at Newark Liberty International Airport, flight attendants alerted law enforcement. After hearing the announcement that the airplane was awaiting the arrival of law enforcement, Vaquero forced his way to the front of the plane and began banging on the flight deck door, demanding, "I need the pilot to come outside!" federal prosecutors said. 

"When a flight attendant attempted to intervene, Vaquero yelled, ‘I will really break your f----- jaw n----!’ Vaquero also yelled, ‘I wanna see that f----- captain! Come outside you b---- a-- n-----!’ When the captain emerged, Vaquero continued to make threats to the captain while six inches from his face until law enforcement intervened," they added. 

JET OWNED BY MOTLEY CRUE’S VINCE NEIL INVOLVED IN FATAL PLANE CRASH AT SCOTTSDALE AIRPORT IN ARIZONA 

Vaquero was charged with one count of interference with flight crew members and attendants by assault or intimidation. 

He made an initial court appearance Monday before being released. If convicted, Vaquero faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. 

"Over the course of a 3-hour flight, we allege Vaquero lost his temper and physically harassed not only the crew and captain, but passengers, making threats of physical violence toward a disabled minor and mocking a group of Jewish passengers," Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence Reilly said in a statement. 

"It all culminated in a terrifying attack and attempted breach of the flight deck when witnesses say he banged on the cockpit door and confronted the pilot," Reilly added. "The harrowing flight and other similar incidents onboard airplanes recently are creating tension and fear for fliers and crew members. FBI Newark has a warning for those who think it may not be a big deal -- they're breaking federal law, and they will be brought to justice." 

Wreckage from the deadly midair collision near Reagan National Airport will start to be removed from the Potomac River Monday morning as officials said they have yet to locate 12 of the victims. 

The collision between a Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter and a Bombardier CRJ700 airliner operating under PSA Airlines, a subsidiary of American Airlines, on Wednesday night left 67 dead. D.C. Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly, Sr. told reporters Sunday that the remains of 55 victims have been identified, as the recovery effort continues.

"We believe we're going to be able to recover all of the victims. But no, we don't know where they all are at this point," Donnelly said ahead of Monday’s operation. 

Col. Francis Pera from the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers said he anticipates "a successful lift," noting they will cover the wreckage with a tent to protect any human remains. 

55 VICTIMS IN WASHINGTON, DC MIDAIR COLLISION PULLED FROM POTOMAC RIVER 

"We do have a process where we will be watching the lift as it happens," Pera explained. "And then if there are remains in there, that will not move while we're recovering the wreckage. We will bring that wreckage to the surface of the barge. Our process [is] to immediately tent the barge to make sure that we have full discretion." 

"When we begin the lift process tomorrow, our goal is to really lift as much as we can – given the fact that we are also accounting for the human remains component – and then our goal is to then transfer that, those pieces of equipment over to a flatbed trailer that will now take it over to a designated hangar, so that the investigation can begin," he added. 

THIRD SOLDIER INSIDE BLACK HAWK HELICOPTER INVOLVED IN DC MIDAIR COLLISION IDENTIFIED 

Pera said divers at the site are equipped with HD cameras, whose feeds are being monitored inside a support boat. 

"So you honestly, you've got four or five sets of eyes looking inside [the] wreckage at the same time," he said. 

Pera also said that "reuniting those lost in the tragic incident is really what keeps us all going."

"We've got teams that have been working this effort since the beginning and we're committed to making this happen," he said.

On Sunday, families of the victims visited the crash site.  

Connolly said while the lift operation is ongoing, local teams "will continue to search down the shorelines and around the river to make sure that we're getting all the debris that's out there." 

"And if by chance, as a member of the public, you come across some of that, you should call 911 and report it to them, and we will get it taken care of and get it examined," he said. 

A passenger on board a United Airlines flight from Houston to New York captured wild video of the wing of the plane catching on fire during takeoff Sunday morning. 

Passengers and crew on United Airlines Flight 1382 were evacuated off the plane at George Bush Intercontinental/Houston Airport due to a "reported engine issue," the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed in a statement to Fox News Digital.

United Airlines also confirmed the incident and issued a statement saying that just after 8:30 a.m., on Sunday, Feb. 2, the crew of United Airlines Flight 1382 safely aborted its takeoff from the George Bush Intercontinental/Houston Airport in Texas due to a reported "engine issue."

A passenger on board the flight shared a video, obtained by FOX 26, of the chaos that happened inside the plane after seeing fire on the wing from a window.

AIRPLANE WING STRIKES TUG VEHICLE AT CHICAGO AIRPORT, LEAVING DRIVER HOSPITALIZED

"No, it's on fire," a passenger can be heard yelling.

"Oh my God, please, please get us out of here," another passenger can be heard saying. 

VP VANCE CALLS ON US 'TO DO A BETTER JOB' WITH AVIATION SAFETY AFTER 'INCREDIBLY HEARTBREAKING' DC PLANE CRASH

The airline said passengers were deplaned on the runway via a combination of slides and stairs and were bused to the terminal. 

The Houston Fire Department also responded to the incident as part of safety protocols and assisted in deboarding passengers. They did not put out the fire and said it was already out when units arrived on the scene.

THIRD SOLDIER INSIDE BLACK HAWK HELICOPTER INVOLVED IN DC MIDAIR COLLISION IDENTIFIED

Officials said there were no injuries and all passengers were moved to another plane to continue to their destination.

The plane, an Airbus A318, was traveling to New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA) with 104 passengers and five crew members, the airline confirmed.

The FAA said it will investigate the incident. 

The driver of an aircraft tug was sent to the hospital in critical condition after an incident at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago on Saturday, according to the Chicago Police Department. 

The wing of the aircraft struck the tug vehicle as the plane was taxiing to the gate, police said.

The passenger plane was operated by American Airlines under American Eagle Flight 6181, the airline confirmed to Fox News Digital in a statement.

"Nothing is more important than the safety of our customers and team members, and we are reviewing this incident," American Airlines said.

AMERICAN AIRLINES WORKER KILLED IN CHARLOTTE AIRPORT VEHICLE ACCIDENT

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also confirmed the tug was reportedly crossing the taxiway when it was hit by a Bombardier CRJ-200, which flew from Kalamazoo Battle Creek International Airport in Michigan.

Upon contact, the tug vehicle flipped over and pinned its 64-year-old male driver, whose name has not been released, according to the police. The driver was later taken to Lutheran General Hospital with head and lower body injuries but is now stable.

UNITED AIRLINES FLIGHT RETURNS TO CHICAGO AFTER HITTING COYOTE

United Airlines also confirmed that the tug driver was one of its employees.

"We are ensuring he receives any necessary support and care," United Airlines said in a statement.

No other customers or crew members were injured in the incident, police said. 

The FAA also stated that the passengers were deplaned safely and bussed to the terminal.

The investigation is ongoing.

The incident at the Chicago airport occurred just days after another one that led to the death of an American Airlines worker at Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina. 

That incident, which occurred on Monday, involved an airline ramp vehicle, the airport told Fox News Digital in a statement, but no additional details were immediately given. 

Fox News' Stephen Sorace contributed to this report. 

Southwest, Delta and more major airlines have scheduled additional flights for fans traveling for Super Bowl LIX, as the costs of airfare and hotel stays rise in the game's host city of New Orleans.

Southwest recently announced 31 new flights from Kansas City and Philadelphia to New Orleans.

The cost of Southwest's flights vary, depending on the arrival date, but 15 flights to the Super Bowl city from the Chiefs' and Eagles' home base have been added, along with 16 return flights from New Orleans to Kansas City and Philadelphia, according to Southwest.com.

HOW TO WATCH SUPER BOWL LIX BETWEEN CHIEFS, EAGLES STREAMED ON TUBI

The highest-priced tickets to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport include a nonstop flight from Kansas City, costing $798, and another business class ticket with a layover in Dallas, Texas, for $848 on Saturday, according to Southwest's website.

Delta also added flights in time for the NFL's championship game with first-class tickets exceeding $4,000.

Delta's additional flights will cater to more than 1,300 passengers, officials with the airline announced on Delta's website. Prices range from $400 to $700 or more, depending on departure dates.

Fox News Digital reached out to Delta for comment.

Prices will dip 50% or more for most flight dates after the game, according to Delta's and Southwest's online fare calendars for 2025. 

TRAVELERS AT AIRPORTS ARE PLAYING 'CHECK-IN CHICKEN' IN LATEST FLIGHT-BOOKING TREND

Other flights from Kansas City to New Orleans on Feb. 9, Super Bowl Sunday, are priced around $300 to nearly $700, for those hoping to make it to the game just in time for kick off.

"Last year alone, Southwest added 341 extra flights, supporting a whopping 61 events, such as the Kentucky Derby and college football games," The Points Guy, a New York-based travel blog, reported.

A Southwest spokesperson told Fox News Digital that the airline is "excited to welcome Philadelphia and Kansas City fans on our extra flights as they travel to and from New Orleans."

DELTA BRINGS SHAKE SHACK TO FLIGHT PASSENGERS, BUT WILL THE MEAL HAVE A SMOOTH TAKEOFF?

"Additionally, some of our flight numbers have Easter eggs such as Flight #3 from Kansas City to New Orleans (potential for a three-peat), Flights 15 and 87 for Chiefs players, and we have some from Philly too with the same numbers of their players including flights #1, #26, and #11."

United and American Airlines have also added additional flights, and are including "Easter eggs for Chiefs and Eagles fans," according to Nola.com.

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As for overnight bookings, motel and hotel prices range from $550 to $4,700 or more for a two-night stay during Super Bowl weekend.

More than two dozen hotels are booked from Feb. 8 to Feb. 10, according to Hotels.com search results. Prices will decrease, and availability appears to return to normal towards the end of February.

For travelers who are looking for the full experience, ticket packages that include hotel accommodations are listed for sale through the Chiefs' and Eagles' partnership with On Location, the Official Hospitality Provider of the NFL.

One package, which includes an official game ticket and "pregame hospitality," is currently sold out online.

Other options with a starting price of $7,005 per person are still available.

Fox News Digital reached out to On Location for comment.

Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., told "Fox News Live" Saturday that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Academy in Oklahoma has struggled to fill classrooms due to DEI quotas. 

"Where the FAA air traffic controllers get trained is right here inside of Oklahoma, in Oklahoma City," Mullin said. "That's their training hub and I will tell you we were having a hard time filling the classes because of DEI." 

Flight safety has become a topic of debate this week after an American Airlines plane and an Army helicopter collided outside Reagan National Airport on Wednesday. Two days later on Friday, a medical jet crashed on a street near the Roosevelt Mall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

TRUMP ATTACKS DEI POLICIES AFTER DC PLANE CRASH, SAYS FAA EMPLOYEES MUST BE HELD TO 'HIGHEST STANDARDS'

Mullin argued that DEI may have played a role in the lack of safety preparedness, especially following the crash outside Reagan National Airport. He said that focusing on hiring "the best and brightest individuals" is a far more dependable strategy than focusing on "diversity, equity and inclusion" policies. 

At the FAA academy in Oklahoma City, DEI policies resulted in classes not being used to capacity to fulfill DEI quotas, Mullin said. 

"Instead of these classes being 100% full, we were at 80% or 70%, and it wasn't from the lack of individuals applying for it except for each class had a ratio that they had to have on it," the senator said. 

TRUMP DOD CREATES TASK FORCE TO ABOLISH DEI OFFICES THAT 'PROMOTE SYSTEMIC RACISM'

Mullin praised President Donald Trump for taking a strong stance against DEI upon taking office. 

"President Trump is absolutely correct," Mullin said. "When you're not hiring people based on merit and expertise; you're hiring them based on diversity, equity and inclusion, then that has a huge problem moving forward for us." 

The FAA did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital. 

The Washington Wizards held a moment of silence Thursday for the victims of the deadly crash involving a passenger jet and an Army helicopter near Reagan National Airport.

The Wizards hosted the Los Angeles Lakers at the Capital One Arena, and it was the first sporting event in D.C. since Wednesday night's crash.

The Wizards had a message on their jumbotron before the game began.

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"We are deeply saddened by the tragedy near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport last night," the statement said. "We extend our thoughts and prayers to those families, loved ones, and all those impacted.

LIVE UPDATES: MILITARY HELICOPTER COLLIDES WITH AIRCRAFT NEAR REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT

"And we thank all the first responders for their heroic efforts across this massive coordinated effort."

An American Airlines jet carrying 60 passengers and four crew members collided with an Army Black Hawk helicopter, which was carrying three soldiers. All airline passengers and soldiers were presumed dead.

At least 14 members of the figure skating community were on board the plane. Six people with ties to the Skating Club of Boston were among them.

The Washington Commanders and Washington Nationals also paid tribute to those who lost their lives and showed their support for the first responders who sprang into action to find any potential survivors and recover bodies from the Potomac River.

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An internal preliminary report from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reportedly showed that the number of staff members working at the air control tower at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) in Arlington, Virginia, was "not normal for the time of day and volume of traffic."

On Wednesday night, an American Airlines plane and an Army helicopter collided near Reagan National Airport outside of Washington, D.C., and all 67 people onboard both aircraft are presumed to be dead.

The Associated Press obtained a report which showed one air traffic controller was working two positions at the time of the crash. 

Typically, the two assignments are split between two air traffic controllers.

FAA PANEL WARNS THAT CURRENT SAFETY LEVELS ARE ‘UNSUNSTAINABLE’

"The position configuration was not normal for the time of day and volume of traffic," the report says.

The FAA did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s questions and request for comment on the matter.

Despite the report saying the staffing was "not normal," a person familiar with the matter told the AP that staffing in the control tower at DCA on Wednesday night was at a normal level.

The person explained that the positions get combined regularly if air controllers have to step away from the console for breaks, or if they are involved in a shift change. Controllers may also have to step away when air traffic is slow, the person explained, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss internal procedures.

The air control tower at Reagan National has been understaffed for years with 19 fully certified controllers as of September 2023. However, staffing targets set by the FAA and the controllers’ union call for 30.

FAA INVESTS $121M FOR AIRPORT MODIFICATIONS TO REDUCE RISK OF RUNWAY INCURSIONS

The FAA’s air traffic controller shortage is nothing new at Reagan National or most of the country’s air traffic control facilities.

Last year, Frontier Airlines CEO Barry Biffle appeared on FOX Business Network’s "The Claman Countdown" and warned that shortages could cause issues during the summer season if they were not addressed.

Biffle explained that while technology could help address the issue while promoting greater efficiencies in air travel over the longer term, the air traffic controller shortage contributes to delays and cancelations.

FAA HEAD STRESSES NEED FOR AVIATION INDUSTRY TO END CLOSE CALLS, RENEWS SAFETY PUSH

"There's opportunities to improve the technology that is kind of the backbone of air traffic control," Biffle said. "If you look to Europe, for example, there are some opportunities that we could adopt here that would be much more efficient — you'd burn a lot less fuel, get there faster and so forth. That is a big opportunity."

"At the same time, it doesn't negate the issue that I think we're 3,000 controllers short right now. And so that just causes, when you have a weather event, it just causes there to be more delays," he explained. "And ultimately, like we've seen the last few days, those delays then turn into cancelations because crews time out and so forth. [I] would really like to see the staffing get fixed. The technology is probably a longer solution."

The FAA's National Airspace System (NAS) safety review team created in April 2023 following several close runway incursions during takeoffs or landings at busy airports, determined that year that the concurrence of several challenges such as the air traffic control staffing crunch, insufficient funding and outdated technology "results in an erosion of safety margins that must be urgently addressed."

"The current erosion in the margin of safety in the NAS caused by the confluence of these challenges is rendering the current level of safety unsustainable," the team's report said.

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The cause of the shortage has been attributed to employee turnover and other factors like tight budgets, and ultimately, it has resulted in many controllers working 10-hour days and as many as six days a week, the New York Times reported.

Fox News Digital’s Louis Casiano contributed to this report.

U.S. ice skater Anton Spiridonov refuted claims suggesting he was on board the commercial jet that collided in midair with an Army helicopter Wednesday night near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

"Russian news outlets have included me on a list of presumed people on the flight from Wichita to Washington D.C.," the skater shared on Instagram. 

"I was NOT on this flight, thank you for everyone’s concern for my safety. My heart goes out to all the families affected by this tragedy." 

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Spiridonov won the silver medal at the World University Games in 2023. He also finished sixth at the U.S. Championships that same year. Spiridonov also paid tribute to his father's former "skating partner," Inna Volyanskaya. 

"Dads skating partner," he wrote on a post to his Instagram story. "Rest in peace, Inna."

LIVE UPDATES: AMERICAN AIRLINES PLANE, ARMY HELICOPTER COLLIDE OUTSIDE REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT NEAR WASHINGTON DC

Flight 5342 carried 60 passengers and four crew members, according to a statement from American Airlines. The flight took off from an airport in Wichita, Kansas.

Authorities confirmed there were three U.S. service members aboard the Army Black Hawk helicopter when the aircraft departed Davison Army Airfield at Fort Belvoir in Virginia. The airfield is located about 15 miles southwest of Reagan Washington National.

The passenger jet and the military helicopter both crashed into the Potomac River as the commercial plane was approaching one of the airport runways. In a news conference Thursday morning, officials confirmed that 27 bodies from the plane and one from the Black Hawk helicopter had been pulled from the frigid waters.

U.S. Figure Skating released a statement confirming that "several members of our skating community" were aboard the flight. The organization said they were returning home from a development camp after the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas, which concluded Sunday.

Fox News' Paulina Dedaj contributed to this report.

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Family and friends of those who lost their lives in the deadly American Airlines and Army helicopter collision are sharing tributes online as they wait for more answers about how this tragedy happened. 

The midair crash occurred around 9 p.m. Wednesday, when an Army helicopter and an American Airlines plane collided near Reagan National Airport outside of Washington, D.C. All 67 people onboard both aircraft are presumed dead.

Tim Lilley identified his son, 28-year-old Sam Lilley, as first officer on American Airlines flight 5342.

"I was so proud when Sam became a pilot. Now it hurts so bad I can’t even cry myself to sleep. I know I’ll see him again, but my heart is breaking," Tim Lilley wrote in a Facebook post. "Sam was the First Officer on the flight that crashed in DC last night. He was doing great in his career and his personal life. He was engaged to get married in the fall."

REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT CRASH: MILITARY BLACK HAWK HELICOPTER COLLIDES MIDAIR WITH AMERICAN AIRLINES JET

"It is so devastating to lose someone that is loved so much," he added.

Scott Hubbard Jr., a friend and former colleague of Sam Lilley, wrote on Facebook: "I had the honor to help welcome him to one of his first flying jobs at SkyLens as the outgoing chief pilot due to starting my career at the airline. He was a phenomenal pilot. I never got to fly with him at the airlines as I changed companies but I was so proud to know him and consider him friend. My heart is heavy for his family and fiancé."

"You left an everlasting impact on us all and we are grateful for you," he added. "Blue Skies brother. And my condolences are with all the other crew members, the passengers, and military service members in the helicopter. This is a sad day."

A flight attendant on board the flight has been identified as Ian Epstein.

"It is with a very heavy heart and extreme sadness that myself along with our children Hannah Epstein and Joanna Epstein and his sister Robbie Epstein Bloom and her husband Steven Bloom and nieces Andi and Dani inform you that Ian Epstein was one of the flight attendants on American Airlines Flight 5342 that collided last night when they were landing in DC," Debi Epstein, Ian's wife, wrote in a Facebook post. "Please pray for Ian and our family as we travel to DC. We will update when plans are made."

Fox News Digital was told that Epstein, who grew up in Montreal, Quebec, had also recently become a flight attendant a few years ago, and loved traveling and his job. 

"Ian Epstein was full of life. He loved being a flight attendant because he truly enjoyed traveling and meeting new people. But his true love was his family.  He was a father, a stepfather, a husband and a brother! He will be truly missed," Epstein's family said in a statement sent to Fox News. 

DC PLANE CRASH TIMELINE: MIDAIR COLLISION INVOLVES 67 PASSENGERS, CREW MEMBERS, SOLDIERS

American Airlines has not yet confirmed the identities of Lilley or Epstein.

6 WITH TIES TO BOSTON FIGURE SKATING CLUB KILLED IN MIDAIR COLLISION, OFFICIAL SAYS

D.C. fire and EMS chief John A. Donnelly said during a news conference Thursday that he’s confident all of the bodies from the crash will be recovered.

"I’m confident that we will do that," he told reporters. "It will take us a little bit of time. It may involve some more equipment."

TRUMP SAYS REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT CRASH COULD HAVE BEEN PREVENTED: 'CLEAR NIGHT'

Fox News Digital has learned the identity of another victim on board flight 5342, a mother of two young children, Wendy Shaffer. 

"I'm still waiting to wake up from this nightmare, but I fear this is the truth. Wendy was not just beautiful on the outside, but was a truly amazing woman through and through," Wendy's husband, Nate Shaffer, shared in a statement with Fox News Digital.

"She was the best wife, mother, and friend that anyone could ever hope for. Her love, kindness, and strength touched everyone she met. We will miss you more than words can express, Wendy Jo. I love you endlessly! Rest in peace, my love."

Loudoun County Public Schools in Virginia announced that multiple victims were former students in the school system.

"Our hearts are heavy as we process the devastating news of last night’s tragic plane crash over the Potomac River involving an American Airlines flight and an Army helicopter. This unimaginable loss has deeply affected our community, and with great sorrow, we have learned that multiple victims were former LCPS students," the school district said in a release Thursday. "Many other Loudoun families have also been impacted, and we extend our deepest condolences to all those grieving in the wake of this tragedy."

Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia said in a statement on its website that three students and six parents in the district were killed in the crash. Two of those parents were current or former FCPS staff members.

Doug Zeghibe, the CEO of the Skating Club of Boston, said Thursday that six of its members died in the collision last night.

Zeghibe said 14 skaters were returning home from a national development camp in Wichita, Kansas and six of them were members of his organization.

"Our sport and this club have suffered a horrible loss with this tragedy," Zeghibe said. "Skating is a tight-knit community where parents and kids come together six or seven days a week to train and work together. Everyone is like family. We are devastated and completely at a loss for words."

Zeghibe identified skaters Jinna Han and Spencer Lane as two of the victims in the crash. Their mothers were also onboard, the Associated Press reported. Lane later posted a photo on his Instagram story with a view from inside the plane before it departed from Wichita.  

"Six is a horrific number for us, but we're fortunate and grateful it wasn't more than six," Zeghibe said. "This will have long-reaching impacts for our skating community.

Two of the members were coaches who were former world pair champions and two were teenagers. Mothers of the athletes died as well, he added.

The Kremlin said Thursday that Russian figure skaters Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov, who competed in multiple Olympic Games and medaled in multiple world championships, were among those aboard the American Airlines flight.

Fowl Plains hunting club in Great Bend, Kansas, wrote on Facebook that seven clients died in the crash.

"We’ve always said our clients are more than friends," the group wrote. "They’re family. Last night we lost 7 family members in the horrific plane crash. 7 family members we’ve had the privilege to hunt with the last few years."

The United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada (UA) shared on X that five of its members died in the crash.

"We are heartbroken to confirm the loss of a fifth UA Brother onboard American Airlines Flight 5342 last night. May they all rest in peace," the organization wrote in a post on X. 

This is a developing story.

Fox News' Greg Norman, Bill Melugin, and Ryan Gaydos contributed to this report. 

EXCLUSIVE: The top Republican on the House Transportation Committee’s subcommittee on aviation is calling for a congressional hearing into the deadly collision between an American Airlines plane and a military helicopter in Washington, D.C.

"We say we are the gold standard, we just need to continue to maintain that level," Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas, who chairs the subcommittee, told Fox News Digital in an interview.

"I just want to sit down with all of them and, when the [National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)] does its report – make sure that it’s very accurate, it’s factual, and that they come up with some recommendations – and then we’ll have to see if we need to change direction or change course based upon those recommendations. But we don’t know yet."

Nehls praised Transportation Committee Chairman Sam Graves, noting his background as a pilot, and said he would be asking the Missouri Republican to convene meetings with the affected parties and those investigating the incident. Nehls suggested potential closed-door meetings to enable more candid discussions but said a public hearing would also be in order.

DC PLANE CRASH INVESTIGATORS TO REVIEW COMMUNICATION BETWEEN 2 AIRCRAFT: SENATOR 

"We have to find out the reason for the crash and then come up with, you know, recommendations to make sure it doesn’t happen again," he said. "We don’t need to be sitting on this. I don’t want to hear, ‘It’s going to take 18 months.’ I don’t want to hear that."

And it appears federal investigators are on that same page.

NTSB officials said they hope to have a preliminary report out in about 30 days.

"I think that would be fair," Nehls said. "But that shouldn't stop Congress looking into this and doing what we can to help. I think President Trump… expects it, and he has a right to expect it from us, to make sure that we keep our aviation industry the standard for the world."

And while he is hoping for quick results, Nehls emphatically cautioned against any early speculation about who or what is to blame for the tragedy.

RECOVERY EFFORTS UNDERWAY AFTER AMERICAN AIRLINES JET, MILITARY HELICOPTER COLLIDE MIDAIR NEAR DC

"Everybody wants to speculate as to how did this happen, why this happened. Whose fault is that? Is it the helicopter? Was it the airplane?" Nehls said. 

"I think that is irresponsible. I think you just need to give it time for the NTSB to investigate, you know, conduct a very thorough investigation."

Finger-pointing and speculation have already run rampant, however. Some have blamed Congress for authorizing too many new airline contracts at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, which is closer to the U.S. Capitol than the much larger Washington-Dulles International Airport.

Others, primarily on the right, have argued that diversity initiatives by Democratic administrations helped lead to the tragedy.

"I think it’s too early for all of that," Nehls said when asked about both.

No evidence has come out to support any conclusion or cause of the crash so far.

Nehls spoke with Fox News Digital the day after a Black Hawk helicopter carrying three service members crashed into a passenger plane heading from Wichita, Kansas, which was moments away from landing at Reagan National Airport.

Both aircraft were seen plummeting into the Potomac River between Washington and neighboring Arlington, Virginia, where the airport is located.

U.S. officials have said there are no survivors, and recovery efforts are still underway.

Fox News Digital reached out to the House Transportation Committee for comment.

American Airlines has said 60 passengers and four crew members were aboard the plane, and the airline encouraged any loved ones looking for information to call the numbers on its site.

Kansas’ entire congressional delegation is vowing to find answers for the families grieving loved ones after the deadly crash of a flight from Wichita to Washington D.C., which officials have said left no survivors.

A Black Hawk helicopter collided with an American Airlines PSA commercial jet that was moments from landing at Ronald Reagan National Airport Wednesday night, temporarily halting all flights in and out of the small but critically located airport.

"Our prayers are with the families and friends of those affected by the tragic plane crash that occurred in our nation’s capital. South Central Kansas is a close community, and it's likely that many of us directly or indirectly know people who were on Flight 5342 on Jan. 29," the lawmakers’ joint written statement said.

VIDEO SHOWS DC PLANE CRASH INVOLVING AMERICAN AIRLINES FLIGHT, BLACK HAWK HELICOPTER

"This is a sad day for Kansans and our nation, and this community, steeped in aviation and manufacturing history, will feel the pain of this catastrophe for years to come. We are grateful for the first responders and rescue crews who worked through the night.

"Our focus now is supporting the family and friends of those who perished, including the crew and military personnel, and then getting answers for the grieving individuals who have lost a loved one and making sure this doesn't happen again."

It was signed by GOP Kansas senators Roger Marshall and Jerry Moran, as well as Republican House representatives Ron Estes, Tracey Mann, Derek Schmidt and the delegation’s lone Democrat, Sharice Davids.

Estes represents much of Wichita, where the flight originated.

Moran said in a press conference shortly after midnight Thursday he was familiar with the flight route, having lobbied American Airlines for it to begin last year.

President Donald Trump briefed reporters on the crisis earlier Thursday, saying there were no survivors from the crash.

Members of Trump’s new Cabinet, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, both promised to find swift answers for the families grieving loved ones after the crash.

Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va., who represents Arlington County, where the airport is located, similarly said he would work toward accountability.

"As the local representative, I want the families to know that our office is available to serve you in any way that we possibly can in this time of grief and transition and loss," Beyer said at another press conference Thursday morning.

AMERICAN AIRLINES CEO EXPRESSES 'DEEP SORROW' AFTER MIDAIR COLLISION

"And then, also, I’d just note that we are deeply grateful for the people who risked their lives last night on a moment’s notice and spent the whole night on the river in the ice and the wind, serving us."

Beyer added that, through the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) probe into the crash, "we’ve got to make sure that, at the federal level and with the support of Virginia, Maryland, and D.C., we’re doing everything we can to make sure that this does not happen again."

American Airlines has said 60 passengers and four crew members were aboard the plane, and the airline encouraged any loved ones looking for information to call the numbers on its site.

U.S. officials are investigating why the Black Hawk helicopter flew into the path of the descending plane, Duffy told reporters.

"I would say the helicopter was aware there was a plane in the area," he said.

Hegseth said the helicopter was manned by an experienced crew and was undergoing an "annual proficiency training flight."

Duffy told reporters that while the collision was a highly unusual and tragic event, the two aircraft's mutual patterns were not atypical.

An estimated 67 people are presumed dead after a Black Hawk helicopter collided with a commercial American Airlines flight from Wichita, Kansas, over the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday evening.

A total of 64 people, including four staff members, were aboard passenger American Airlines Flight 5342, and three soldiers were on the Army Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk that came from Fort Belvoir in Virginia. 

AMERICAN AIRLINES PLANE, ARMY HELICOPTER COLLIDE OUTSIDE REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT NEAR WASHINGTON DC

Here is a timeline of events leading up to and immediately after the Wednesday night crash:

AA Flight 5342 departs Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ITC) for Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) at 5:18 p.m. CST, or 6:18 p.m. EST, according to air traffic control records from FlightRadar24.

An Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter departs Fort Belvoir as part of a training exercise. An senior Army official told Fox News the soldiers were part of a "fairly experienced" Black Hawk crew, and they had night vision goggles aboard the helicopter.

Flight 5342 began to descend into DCA from the south.

DC PLANE CRASH AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL AUDIO REVEALS MOMENT CONTROLLERS SAW DISASTER: ‘TOWER DID YOU SEE THAT?’

Air traffic controllers ask Flight 5342 to land on Runway 33, and pilots acknowledge the order.

ATC AUDIO:

An air traffic control official asks the Black Hawk (PAT-25) pilot whether he can see the commercial aircraft.

"Do you have the CRJ in sight?" the controller asks, and the helicopter pilot confirms he sees the passenger plane and requests "visual separation," meaning he is trying to get out of the flight's path, according to FlightRadar24 audio.

"PAT-25, do you have the CRJ in sight?" the controller can be heard saying to the helicopter pilot 30 seconds before the crash.

The controller makes another radio call to PAT-25 moments later: "PAT-25, pass behind the CRJ."

ATC AUDIO REVEALS MOMENT CONTROLLERS SAW DISASTER:

Army UH-60 and Flight 5342 then collide over the Potomac River, causing an explosion midair at an altitude of about 300 feet that was caught on camera.

Air traffic controllers can be heard reacting, and asking, "Did you see that?"

The D.C. Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) receives phone calls reporting a plane crash over the Potomac. 

REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT CRASH: MILITARY BLACK HAWK HELICOPTER COLLIDES MIDAIR WITH AMERICAN AIRLINES JET

MPD, D.C. Fire and EMS, and "multiple partner agencies" begin coordinating a search and rescue operation.

DCA closes due to an "aircraft emergency."

The DC Fire and EMS Department posts an update on X stating, "Confirmed small aircraft down in Potomac River vicinity Reagan National Airport. Fireboats on scene."

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt posts a statement from President Donald Trump to X.

"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," the statement reads.

Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser holds a press conference with other law enforcement personnel and announces that a passenger aircraft collided with a military aircraft.

DC Fire and EMS Chief John A. Donnelly announces that officials "have recovered 27 people from the plane and one from the helicopter."

"Despite all these efforts, we are now at a point where we are switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation," Donnelly says.

Officials hold a press conference in Washington, D.C., saying all 67 passengers, crew members and soldiers on board both aircraft are presumed dead.

"We are now at the point where we are switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation," Donnelly says during the briefing. "We don’t believe there are any survivors."

Flights resume landing at DCA; the first aircraft lands at the airport at 11:02 a.m.

A Department of Homeland Security source told Fox News Digital on Thursday morning that there are "no terror concerns" after the collision, and officials suspect the crash was "just a tragedy."

Prior to the deadly collision, there had been a military aircraft-involved crash in Alaska on Tuesday. Officials said a U.S. Air Force F-35 fighter jet crashed in Alaska after the pilot managed to safely eject from the aircraft.

There have been at least 238 deaths and 227 injuries stemming from non-combat U.S. military aircraft crashes since 2012, according to the FAA.

There have also been multiple "close call" incidents at DCA since 2023.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

President Donald Trump set his sights on DEI standards at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Thursday after a deadly in-air collision at the nation's capital.

Trump, speaking to reporters in the White House briefing room, highlighted efforts by the Biden administration to lower aviation standards, though he acknowledged that the cause of Wednesday night's crash has yet to be determined.

"We must have only the highest standards for those who work in our aviation system," Trump said. "Only the highest aptitude — you have to be the highest intellect — and psychologically superior people, were allowed to qualify for air traffic controllers."

"We have to have our smartest people. It doesn't matter what they look like, how they speak, who they are. What matters is intellect, talent. The word 'talent.' They have to be talented geniuses," he continued. "We can't have regular people doing that job. They won't be able to do it."

Trump later attributed the crash to a "confluence of bad decisions that were made."

VIDEO SHOWS DC PLANE CRASH INVOLVING AMERICAN AIRLINES FLIGHT, BLACK HAWK HELICOPTER

Trump noted that he had raised the qualification standards for air traffic controllers during his first administration, but he said former President Joe Biden had lowered them once he left office.

AMERICAN AIRLINES CEO EXPRESSES 'DEEP SORROW' AFTER MIDAIR COLLISION

The president reinstated the higher standards last week with an executive order, he said.

"We do not know what led to this crash, but we have some very strong opinions and ideas, and I think we'll probably state those opinions now, because over the years I've watched as things like this happen and they say, well, we're always investigating. And then the investigation, three years later, they announce it," Trump said, going on to detail an investigation including the FAA, the Department of Defense and the National Transportation Safety Board.

Trump went on to highlight a series of articles covering the FAA's "diversity push" that he said occurred prior to him taking office.

"The FAA is actively recruiting workers who suffer severe intellectual disabilities, psychiatric problems, and other mental and physical conditions under a diversity and inclusion hiring initiative spelled out on the agency's website," he said.

While that language was present on the FAA's website during the Biden administration, it was also present during Trump's first administration.

AMERICAN FIGURE SKATING MEMBERS, RUSSIAN OLYMPIANS ABOARD PLANE IN REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT CRASH

When asked for comment on the initiative last year, including what roles people with disabilities would fulfill, the FAA told Fox News Digital that the agency thoroughly seeks and vets qualified candidates "from as many sources as possible" for a range of positions.

Later in the press conference, Trump criticized former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg as a "disaster."

"He's just got a good line of bulls--t," the president said of the Democrat.

Reporters then pressed Trump on the facts of the crash, asking whether he had evidence that it was caused by incompetence due to DEI. Trump said the investigation is ongoing, but that "it could have been."

Buttigieg was quick to strike back on X, calling Trump's comments "despicable." 

"As families grieve, Trump should be leading, not lying," Buttigieg continued. "We put safety first, drove down close calls, grew Air Traffic Control, and had zero commercial airline crash fatalities out of millions of flights on our watch."

Wednesday night's crash involved an American Airlines jet carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. It collided with a military Blackhawk helicopter carrying three service members. Trump confirmed that there were no survivors.

Fox News' Emma Colton contributed to this report.

The deadly midair collision involving an airplane and a military helicopter on Wednesday night appears to have been caught on camera.

Footage shows a bright, fiery explosion as the two objects collide.

First responders were "switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation," D.C. Fire and EMS Department Chief John Donnelly said during a press conference on Thursday morning, noting that they do not believe there are any crash survivors.

He indicated 27 bodies had been recovered from the airplane, and one from the helicopter.

"A PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet collided in midair with a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter while on approach to Runway 33 at Reagan Washington National Airport around 9 p.m. local time," the Federal Aviation Administration noted on Wednesday night. "PSA was operating as Flight 5342 for American Airlines. It departed from Wichita, Kansas. The FAA and NTSB will investigate. The NTSB will lead the investigation."

RECORDINGS REVEAL MORE INFORMATION ON DC AIRCRAFT COLLISION

The chopper had been engaged in a "training mission" at the time of the collision, Ron McLendon II, Deputy Director, JTF-NCR/USAMDW Public Affairs noted.

"While performing a training mission a United States Army UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter from Bravo Company, 12th Aviation Battalion, Davison Army Airfield, Fort Belvoir, Va., collided in midair with an American Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet Flight 5342 last night at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport," McLendon noted. "The FAA, NTSB and the United States Army will investigate. The NTSB will lead the investigation. We are working with local officials and will provide any additional information once it becomes available."

U.S. Figure Skating has indicated that members of its community were on the airplane.

"U.S. Figure Skating can confirm that several members of our skating community were sadly aboard American Airlines Flight 5342, which collided with a helicopter yesterday evening in Washington, D.C. These athletes, coaches, and family members were returning home from the National Development Camp held in conjunction with the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas," U.S. Figure Skating noted.

"We are devastated by this unspeakable tragedy and hold the victims’ families closely in our hearts. We will continue to monitor the situation and will release more information as it becomes available," the statement added.

AMERICAN FIGURE SKATING MEMBERS, RUSSIAN OLYMPIANS ABOARD PLANE IN REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT CRASH

Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., noted that he had landed at the DCA airport on a flight from Houston's IAH airport shortly before the collision occurred.

"I landed at DCA this evening at 8:42pm, IAH—DCA, minutes before an in-flight collision over the airport. My thoughts are with all involved and their families. Hoping first responders find survivors," the congressman noted on Wednesday night.

REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT CRASH: TRUMP, LAWMAKERS REACT TO TRAGEDY AS OFFICIALS INVESTIGATE

President Donald Trump sounded off about the crash on Truth Social.

"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!!!" Trump declared in a post shared shortly after midnight.

"What a terrible night this has been. God bless you all!" he added in another post.

Fox News' Melissa Summers and James Levison contributed to this report

President Donald Trump suggested the horrific collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines jet near Reagan National Airport outside Washington, D.C., late Wednesday could have been prevented. 

"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," Trump posted on Truth Social early Thursday morning. 

"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!!!"

LIVE UPDATES: AMERICAN AIRLINES PLANE, MILITARY HELICOPTER COLLIDE NEAR REGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT IN WASHINGTON, DC

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet collided in midair with a Sikorsky UH-60 helicopter while on approach to Runway 33 at Reagan National Airport (DCA) around 9 p.m. local time. The jet was operating as Flight 5342 for American Airlines, and it departed from Wichita, Kansas. 

There were 60 passengers and four crew members aboard the American Airlines flight and three Army soldiers on the Black Hawk. Those aboard the plane included "several members" of U.S. Figure Skating, including athletes, coaches and family members who had just attended the U.S. Figure Skating Championships held in Wichita from Jan. 20 to Jan. 26. 

The exact number of injuries and fatalities has not yet been confirmed. 

REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT CRASH: MILITARY BLACK HAWK HELICOPTER COLLIDES MIDAIR WITH AMERICAN AIRLINES JET

At the time of the crash, Reagan National Airport reported clear skies, visibility of 10 miles and winds sustained out of the northwest at 16 mph, gusting to 26 mph. The temperature was 50 degrees.

Nearly 300 first responders deployed to the freezing Potomac River, where the wreckage of the plane lies partially submerged for search and rescue operations, but hope of finding survivors is fading. The temperature in the river was 37 degrees on Wednesday night. 

AMERICAN FIGURE SKATING MEMBERS, RUSSIAN OLYMPIANS ABOARD PLANE IN REAGAN NATIONAL AIRPORT CRASH

Vice President JD Vance took to social media Wednesday night to address the collision and urge prayer for those involved. 

"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," he said. 

The National Transportation Safety Board, FAA and the U.S. Army have each launched probes into the deadly collision. 

Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and other officials will hold a press conference at 7:30 a.m. ET Thursday at Reagan National Airport. 

"Tonight, as our first responders continue their efforts, we are sending our love and prayers to the families, loved ones, and communities who are experiencing loss during this terrible tragedy," she wrote on X. 

The airport remains closed until 11 a.m. this morning following the nearby collision last night between an American Airlines passenger jet and an Army helicopter. 

"What a terrible night this has been," Trump said. "God bless you all!"

Some planes may have more than the usual amount of legroom — giving passengers an entire seat space of room due to placement near the exit door.

One flight passenger recently posted an interesting dilemma on the "r/delta" Reddit forum. The person shared that he or she was sitting in a window seat with no seat in front of them — allowing a two-row distance of extra space.

"Seat 29F on a 757 has no seat in front of it. It’s just 28D and 28E because of the exit door," the person wrote. "The seat is great for extra legroom on flights where I’m not getting upgraded."

FLIGHT ATTENDANT TAKES TO REDDIT FOR PASSENGER ‘PET PEEVES,’ SPARKS SOCIAL MEDIA OUTPOURING

The user went on, "The person in 28E used the under-seat storage on 27F and this person even used the entertainment system to display the flight tracker while she watched a movie on the seat directly in front of her."

Fox News Digital reached out to both the Reddit user and Delta Air Lines for comment.

"I had planned on throwing my bag underneath the seat in front of me and using my wireless adapter to connect the entertainment center to my headphones," the person added. 

A photo shared with the post showed the fellow passenger looking at both monitors with her bag underneath the seat in front of the poster.

Not being able to use the monitor in front, the user then asked, "Who gets the space and the entertainment center for this seat?"

FLIGHT PASSENGER ASKS IF 'SEAT SQUATTERS' ARE BECOMING THE NEW NORM, TRIGGERING REACTIONS ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Reddit users took to the comments section to share thoughts and tips as well. 

"You get the space and TV on the seat directly in front of you," declared one.

Another agreed, adding, "It’s your space."

"That looks like your monitor, honestly. They have one already," commented a user.

One said, "That space is supposed to be yours. End of story."

"That is your space. Ask them to move it. I am the most nonconfrontational person I know, and I have asked many people to do this," suggested one user.

Another shared, "If you don't want to ask them to move their bag, one thing you can do is place your bag in your foot space during the preflight checks."

"When the FA [flight attendant] asks you to stow it, you can point to the bag that's under the seat in front of you," added the user. 

California-based etiquette expert Rosalinda Randall told Fox News Digital, "It would seem logical to use the screen and space underneath the seat in front of you."

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She shared that the Reddit user could call the flight attendant to settle the issue or "forget about it and store your belongings in the [overhead] bin."

"In a non-accusatory manner, [the person could] say something like, 'It's a bit confusing, but that is my designated space.' Or, 'Are these yours? Sorry, but it looks like I'm going to need my space,'" Randall added. 

For more Lifestyle articles, visit foxnews.com/lifestyle

"You've got to have great eye vision to view the screen from a two-row distance. If it's an older plane where the volume and channel buttons are on the armrest, then they couldn't be using your screen," said Randall.

She also said that once the plane was in the air, the user could simply reach the screen and select the preferred movie. 

"Safety and civility should always be our approach and main concern," said Randall.

Randall added, "In today's easily sparked society, giving up a small space underneath a seat may be the better decision." 

A massive search and rescue effort was underway after an Army Black Hawk helicopter collided midair with an American Airlines jet at Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia, on Wednesday evening.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet collided in midair with a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter while on approach to Runway 33 at Reagan National Airport (DCA) around 9 p.m. local time. 

PSA was operating as Flight 5342 for American Airlines, and it departed from Wichita, Kansas. There was no immediate word on casualties or the cause of the collision.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told Fox News' Sean Hannity that President Donald Trump is aware of the situation, calling it tragic. Trump later released a statement, writing: "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."

PLANE VEERS OFF AIRPORT RUNWAY IN SOUTH KOREA AND CRASHES, KILLING 179: REPORTS

According to American Airlines, there were 60 passengers and four crew members on board the CRJ-700 aircraft.

"Our concern is for the passengers and crew on board the aircraft," the airline said in a statement. "We are in contact with authorities and assisting with emergency response efforts."

There were three soldiers on the helicopter at the time of the crash, according to an Army official.

"We can confirm that the aircraft involved in tonight’s incident was an Army UH-60 helicopter from Bravo Company, 12th Aviation Battalion, out of Davison Army Airfield, Fort Belvoir during a training flight," the Army confirmed to Fox News Digital. "We are working with local officials and will provide additional information once it becomes available."

KAZAKHSTAN PLANE CRASH SURVIVORS SAY THEY HEARD BANGS BEFORE AIRCRAFT WENT DOWN; PUTIN ISSUES STATEMENT

The Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk is a four-blade, twin-engine, medium-lift utility military helicopter, which can carry 15 people, including two pilots, two crew chiefs and two rescue specialists.

Jack Potter, the president and CEO of Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, said during a press conference that flights will resume from the airport at 11 a.m.

At the time of the crash, Reagan National Airport reported clear skies, visibility of 10 miles and winds sustained out of the northwest at 16 mph, gusting to 26 mph. The temperature at the time was 50 degrees.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said he was on the scene and closely monitoring the situation. He was just sworn in earlier in the day on Wednesday.

He later posted that he had directed the U.S. Department of Transportation and FAA to provide full support to the National Transportation and Safety Board, as well as all responding agencies and authorities.

"I have spoken with Washington D.C. Mayor Bowser, Virginia Governor Youngkin, Kansas Governor Kelly, and NTSB Chair Homendy to offer our agency’s complete assistance. Thank you to all first responders who are on the scene and conducting the search and rescue operations," Duffy wrote on X.

The FBI said it's Washington Field Office's National Capital Response Squad was responding to "an aviation incident at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport" in support of law enforcement and public safety partners.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said every available U.S. Coast Guard resource is being deployed to assist with search and rescue efforts. She also said her department is actively monitoring the situation and stands ready to support local responders.

The DC Fire and EMS Department confirmed that fireboats were on the scene.

Fire and EMS Chief John A. Donnelly, Sr., said there are currently about 300 responders working at the scene.

AIRLINER'S FINAL 4 MINUTES OF RECORDINGS ARE MISSING AFTER CRASH THAT KILLED 179: INVESTIGATORS

A few minutes before landing, air traffic controllers asked the arriving commercial jet if it could land on the shorter Runway 33 at Reagan National and the pilots said they were able. Controllers then cleared the plane to land on Runway 33. Flight tracking sites showed the plane adjusting its approach to the new runway.

In audio from the air traffic control tower around the time of the crash, a controller is heard asking the helicopter, "PAT25 do you have the CRJ in sight," in reference to the passenger aircraft.

Fox News has learned that the helicopter did respond, but on a different frequency, a frequency for helicopters.

"Tower did you see that?" another pilot is heard calling seconds after the apparent collision.

One video posted to X and captured from the webcam at the Kennedy Center caught what appeared to be the midair explosion near the Potomac River.

Trump posted further reaction to the crash on Truth Social.

"The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport," he wrote. "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!!!"

Vice President JD Vance took to X to call on people to stay positive as the tragedy unfolded.

"Please say a prayer for everyone involved in the mid-air collision near Reagan airport this evening," Vance wrote. "We're monitoring the situation, but for now let's hope for the best."

American Airlines CEO Robert Isom released a video statement early Thursday morning saying the airline's "go team" was heading to the area, and he would also be on his way to the scene shortly. He also said the airline set up a special helpline for friends and family to call. That number is 1-800-679-8215.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelley said she was aware of the incident.

"I am aware that a plane inbound from Wichita was involved in a crash at Reagan National Airport," she said. "I am actively in contact with authorities. My thoughts go out to those involved. I will share more information as it becomes available."

Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., also posted on X about the crash.

"My prayer is that God wraps his arms around each and every victim and that he continues to be with their families.  There are no words that can make telling this story any easier," he wrote. "I ask the world to join me in praying for Kansas this evening, the first responders, rescue crews, and all those involved in this horrific accident. I have been in contact with local and national authorities asking for answers and will continue to demand more information on how this unfolded."

The collision marked the first time there has been a crash involving a U.S. commercial flight since 2009.

Colgan Air Flight 3407, a flight from Newark, New Jersey, to Buffalo, New York, stalled and crashed during landing approach near Buffalo Niagara International Airport on Feb. 12, 2009. The plane slammed into a house.

All 45 passengers and four crew members were killed.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority for more information. The FAA and NTSB will investigate. The NTSB will lead the investigation.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Sen. Mike Lee is continuing to call for the abolition of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

"Tired of being groped every time you travel? Abolish TSA," the senator said in a recent post on X.

"Make Airport Security Free Of Sexual Assault Again," Lee said in another tweet, adding, "Abolish TSA."

TSA OFFICER REPORTEDLY CAUGHT WITH FIREARM IN BUSY ATLANTA AIRPORT IS ARRESTED

In another post, he suggested that President Donald Trump should eliminate the TSA.

Lee suggests that instead of TSA, airlines could handle passenger screening.

"You may be required to undergo a pat-down procedure if the screening technology alarms, as part of unpredictable security measures, for enhanced screening, or as an alternative to other types of screening, such as advanced imaging technology screening," according to the TSA website. "A pat-down may include inspection of the head, neck, arms, torso, legs, and feet. This includes head coverings and sensitive areas such as breasts, groin, and the buttocks."

The agency was established in the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks.

"The Aviation and Transportation Security Act, passed by the 107th Congress and signed on November 19, 2001, established TSA," according to the TSA's website.

TSA REVEALS TOP UNUSUAL FINDS AT AIRPORT SECURITY CHECKPOINTS IN 2024

Lee advocated the idea of nixing TSA last year as well.

"It’s time to abolish the TSA. Airlines can and will secure their own planes if a federal agency doesn’t do it for them. They’ll do it better than TSA, without undermining the Constitution and with less groping—showing more respect for passengers," the senator declared in a post last year on March 11.

Days later, Lee indicated that he had been subjected to a TSA pat down.

SEN MIKE LEE: REPUBLICANS IN CONGRESS MUST IMMEDIATELY ADVANCE TRUMP'S MAGA AGENDA

"Update: days after calling to abolish TSA, I got 'randomly selected' for the needlessly slow, thorough TSA screening & patdown. Maybe it’s a coincidence. Or not. Impossible to know. That’s part of the problem with having a federal agency in charge of airport security," he tweeted on March 14, 2024.

In December, the senator shared a video of a man being subjected to a pat down.

"It’s unsettling knowing that the TSA does this countless times every day, constantly conducting needlessly invasive, warrantless, suspicion-less searches of law-abiding Americans," Lee wrote when sharing the video. "Please share if you’d like to abolish TSA," he added.

When my husband and I were on the very long flight last year, he leaned over and asked, "I want to check our Morgan Stanley account. Do you think it’s OK to do it using the plane’s Wi-Fi?"

Win a pair of $329 Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. Enter here, no purchase necessary!

How did we live without Wi-Fi on a plane? Oh, yeah, we read magazines! Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but Wi-Fi isn’t as protected as we hope. Fear not. I’ve got some tips on protecting yourself and surfing safely in the skies.

10 TECH UPGRADES TO SAVE YOUR TIME, PRIVACY AND MONEY THIS YEAR

Hackers use all kinds of sneaky tactics to hijack your privacy in flight. One thing in their favor: VPNs are more likely to drop in and out in the air than on the ground. (More on that below.)

Without that layer of protection, cybercriminals using the same airline Wi-Fi can easily tap into your devices, access your information and spread malware.

"S" for security: Only visit encrypted websites — the ones that start with "HTTPS" (that "S" is important!). In general, this blocks a hacker from viewing your activity on a given site, like the password or credit card number you typed in.

Beware of AirDrop: Keyloggers keep track of every single thing you type, and criminals love to pass them along using Apple’s AirDrop feature. Don’t accept drops from strangers in flight. Steps here to disable or limit AirDrop if you need help.

Name game: Crooks can create fake Wi-Fi networks with almost identical names to the airline’s. If you’re not careful, you could plug into a copycat network instead of the legit one.

THE NSA SAYS DO THESE 5 THINGS WITH YOUR PHONE RIGHT NOW

Is your home connection locked down? Do this check twice a year.

I know you’re not going to skip the Wi-Fi altogether. That’s OK, just be smart about it.

Update everything: Before you hit the road, make sure your phone, computer, tablet, smartwatch and any other connected devices are running the latest software. Steps here for Windows, Mac, iPhone and Android. Updates often include critical security patches that protect against the new threats. Don’t forget to update your apps, too.

Add a layer of security: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection. Before accessing anything sensitive, like your email, online banking or shopping accounts, turn on your VPN. Double-check its status to ensure it’s actively protecting your connection. It should display as "connected" or "secured."

Verify names. If you notice multiple Wi-Fi networks with similar names, check with the airline staff and confirm which is the right one.

Use 2FA: For any account tied to financial information or personal details, two-factor authentication is a must. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step, like a code sent to your phone or email, after entering your password. Set this up for all accounts with ties to your finances to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

Secure your devices. Invest in antivirus and malware-protection software, and keep your devices physically secure. Avoid leaving your phone, tablet or laptop unattended, even for a moment. 

THE STEP I TAKE TO CLEAR MY INBOX EVERY JANUARY

Stop looky loos. Get a privacy screen for your laptop to prevent nearby shoulder snooping.

Bonus: Don’t post pics of your boarding pass or other travel docs

You’re excited, waiting for the plane. What’s the harm in posting a pic of your boarding pass? A whole lot. Boarding passes display your full legal name, ticket number and passenger name record. That six-digit code plus your last name gives anyone access to your booking information online.

The same goes for your license, passport, visa or other identification documents. Thieves keep an eye out for any detail they can use.

Keep these photos on your phone before vacation. Scroll to No. 3. You’ll thank me if something goes missing.

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