According to the Federal Aviation Authority (FDA), at around 21:00 local time, the airplane in question collided with a US Army helicopter as it neared Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

Reports state that there were 60 passengers and four crew members onboard the plane. The military helicopter, meanwhile, was carrying three soldiers said to be on a training exercise.

Harrowing CCTV footage, taken from a nearby building, has surfaced online showing the moment the plane and helicopter collided. A ball of flames can be seen erupting upon the impact, before both aircraft fell into the Potomac River.

Officials in Washington DC last night refused to confirm reports on casualties, insisting instead that they are focused on the ongoing rescue effort.

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