Former President Donald Trump has ignited backlash over his remarks regarding the Washington D.C. plane crash, which claimed 67 lives after a tragic mid-air collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
During a press conference at the White House, Trump confirmed that there were "no survivors” following the crash of American Airlines Flight 5342, which collided with a military Black Hawk helicopter before plunging into the Potomac River.
Trump's Comment Raises Eyebrows
While addressing reporters, Trump described the tragedy as a "terrible accident" but suggested it "should have been prevented." He took to Truth Social to express his opinion:
"The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport. The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time.
"It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing, why didn’t the helicopter go up or down, or turn? Why didn’t the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane?
"This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!"
Joke About Crash Site Sparks Outrage
When a reporter asked if he planned to visit the crash site, Trump made a comment that many found inappropriate.
"I have a plan to visit, not the site," he responded. "Because what, you tell me. What’s the site? Water. We’re going to go swimming?"
The remark was met with immediate criticism, given the devastating loss of life and the fact that dozens of bodies had already been recovered from the river, while others remained missing.
Trump Blames Air Traffic Controllers
Beyond his controversial joke, Trump placed blame on air traffic control operations, alleging that the Black Hawk helicopter did "the opposite of what it was told." He further claimed that unqualified personnel had been hired for crucial aviation roles.
"They have to be talented, naturally talented geniuses," he said. "You can’t have regular people doing their job."
Trump also vowed to "restore faith in American air travel" if re-elected, criticizing the current administration’s handling of aviation safety.
Investigations Ongoing
Authorities, including the National Transportation Safety Board, continue to investigate the exact cause of the collision. With multiple figure skating athletes and families among the victims, the tragedy has sent shockwaves through communities across the country.
As the nation mourns, many continue to question Trump’s response to the crisis, with his remarks sparking fresh debate over leadership in times of tragedy.
