U.S. Figure Skating has confirmed that several of its athletes were on board American Airlines Flight 5342 when it tragically crashed into the Potomac River. The athletes, coaches, and family members were returning home from the National Development Camp held alongside the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas.
The flight, which had 60 passengers and four crew members, departed from Kansas on January 29. The names of the individuals involved in the crash have not been disclosed.
The incident occurred when the airplane collided with an Army helicopter near Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., before plunging into the river during a landing attempt. Emergency crews responded to the scene, recovering multiple bodies from the water.
According to reports, three soldiers were on the helicopter at the time of the collision, and there were unfortunately multiple fatalities, though the exact number is unknown.
The International Skating Union expressed deep shock over the tragedy and extended condolences to all those affected. The organization highlighted the close-knit nature of the figure skating community and pledged full support during this difficult time.
The 2025 Prevagen U.S. Figure Skating Championships recently concluded in Wichita, featuring individual and pairs events. The event also included a reception to honor the induction of the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame’s class of 2025.