Chilling air traffic control audio has suddenly emerged from the moments before and after the American Airlines plane crashed into a military helicopter.
At least 18 passengers were said to be pulled out from the frigid waters of the Potomac River after flight 5342 collided with a Black Hawk Sikorsky H-60 helicopter while trying to land in Washington DC.
The airline did confirm how 60 passengers were on board with four crew members when the Bombardier CRJ700 plunged at the time. Meanwhile, three people were said to be traveling on board the chopper.
As per one law enforcement source speaking to CNN, there are confirmed fatalities but the exact number is yet to be determined.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the ATC audio arose from the exact time that the plane crashed.
The ATC operators can be heard asking the helicopter if the commercial flight is in sight. Through muffled audio, more commands and confirmations were made between the ATC operators.
‘PAT-2-5 do you have the CRJ in sight? You do right?’ – the audio is heard. After that, the controller speaks again requesting the helicopter to kindly pass behind the plane.
After a few seconds, a haunting audible gasp could be heard and it was clear that nothing could be done and the crash had arisen. Other planes were told to remain at the gate as the airport would now be closed for an indefinite time.