A search-and-rescue operation was launched along the Potomac River south of Washington after a passenger aircraft collided with a military helicopter close to Reagan National Airport (DCA) on Wednesday evening, January 29.Footage captured by Abadi Ismail shows an emergency helicopter shining a searchlight on the Potomac River.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 Washington National Airport around 9 pm local time. 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.”The airplane was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members, American Airlines said.At least 18 bodies had been recovered by 11:30 pm on Wednesday, according to CBS News, citing a police official.DC Mayor Muriel Bowser told press early Thursday that 300 emergency responders were involved in search and rescue operations.“I speak for the people of Washington, 700,000 of us, who are extremely sorry for the families who are experiencing loss tonight.” Bowser said. “My sorrow for all of the people on the plane and our military personnel is very deep.”Takeoffs and landings were halted at the airport during the emergency response. Credit: Abadi Ismail via Storyful