Flights Resume In D.C. After Horrific Crash, But We Might Not Be Safe

American Airlines resumes flights from Wichita to Washington, DC after a tragic mid-air collision that halted service.

At a Glance

  • American Airlines Flight 5677 will restart service from Wichita to Washington, DC on Friday
  • The resumption follows a fatal collision between Flight 5342 and a helicopter near Reagan National Airport
  • The Mitsubishi CRJ-701ER aircraft will depart from Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport at 5:18 p.m.
  • Runway 33 at Reagan National Airport remains closed until Saturday evening
  • The Wichita to DC route initially began on January 8, 2024

Flight Service Resumes After Tragic Incident

American Airlines is set to resume its flight service from Wichita, Kansas to Washington, DC on Friday, following a heartbreaking mid-air collision that resulted in multiple fatalities. The incident, which involved American Airlines Flight 5342 and a military helicopter, occurred as the commercial flight was approaching Reagan National Airport.

The resumption of service marks a significant step in returning to normal operations after the tragic event. The first flight since the incident, American Airlines Flight 5677, is scheduled for departure from Wichita’s Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport.

The American Airlines route between Wichita and Washington, DC, which began on January 8, 2024, will continue with Flight 5677. This service utilizes a Mitsubishi CRJ-701ER aircraft, operated under the American Eagle banner.

The resumption of this route signifies American Airlines’ commitment to maintaining vital connections between Wichita and the nation’s capital, despite the recent tragedy. Passengers are advised to check with the airline for any potential changes or updates to their travel plans.

But at the end of the day, American passengers will only ever be safe if changes are made to the protocols that failed the people who died that day.

While flight services are resuming, Reagan National Airport continues to deal with the aftermath of the collision. Runway 33, where the crash occurred, remains temporarily closed as investigations and necessary repairs are carried out.