FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. – A devastating plane crash near Ronald Reagan National Airport has claimed the lives of multiple community members from Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) and Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS). The tragedy unfolded shortly before 9 p.m. on Wednesday night, when American Airlines Flight 5342, en route from Wichita, Kansas, collided midair with a U.S. Army Blackhawk helicopter, resulting in all 67 passengers aboard both aircraft presumed dead.
Among the victims were three FCPS students and six parents, with two of the parents being current or former staff members at FCPS. This harrowing news has sent shockwaves throughout the local school communities as they grapple with the enormity of their loss.
“We are devastated by the tragic news as we learn members of our FCPS community have lost their lives,” stated FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle C. Reid. “Multiplying the grief are the siblings, spouses, relatives, friends, and colleagues who have lost loved ones.” The students and parents were reportedly returning from a figure skating event when the tragedy occurred, magnifying the impact on their families and schools.
The collision took place above the Potomac River, with immediate efforts from first responders focused on rescue. Sadly, those efforts shifted to recovery as authorities confirmed the absence of survivors among the wreckage, highlighting the scale of this aviation disaster.
Many of the passengers on the flight, operated by American Airlines, were figure skaters, coaches, and family members returning from the National Development Camp, part of the 2025 Prevagen Figure SkATING Championships.
“Our hearts go out to families, friends, and loved ones mourning this unimaginable grief,” declared Reid. The entire FCPS community is feeling the impact, with support resources put in place, including crisis teams to assist students and families dealing with this tragic event.
Likewise, LCPS Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence expressed deep sorrow for the incident, confirming multiple former students from their district were among the victims. “This unimaginable loss has deeply affected our community, and with great sorrow, we have learned of multiple victims being former LCPS students,” he said.
Resources such as mental health professionals and crisis counselors have been made available to help students and their families process the trauma. Families are encouraged to reach out for assistance, and staff members are directed to utilize programs for employee health assistance.
Emergency management teams from Fairfax County played significant roles during the incident response, with additional support from local police, fire, and emergency medical services. They are working diligently to recover the bodies and assess the wreckage, urging the community to refrain from disturbing any items found along the river.
“Now, more than ever, we must stand together as a community,” said Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeff McKay. “I ask you to join me in keeping the victims and their families in your thoughts and prayers.” This tragedy marks one of the deadliest aviation disasters the nation has seen, leaving its mark on the local community.
Support networks have been established to assist those affected, with FCPS ensuring resources are available for anyone needing help. Reid urged the community to maintain empathy and compassion during this incredibly challenging time, emphasizing the importance of coming together for support.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision, seeking to understand the factors leading to this tragic event. Meanwhile, community leaders are focused on providing solace and support to those mourning, reinforcing the need for unity and care among one another.
Both FCPS and LCPS have committed to maintaining communication as the recovery efforts continue, promising to keep the public informed about any significant updates related to the incident.
“This is heartbreaking, and we stand ready to provide the necessary support,” said Reid. “Let’s continue to be there for one another during this time of grief.”