An extensive search and rescue operation is currently underway after an American Airlines flight collided in mid-air with a helicopter in Washington DC, with both crashing into the Potomac River.

Emergency services chief John Donnelly has said conditions are “extremely rough” in the dark and with icy temperatures.

The jet, which was coming from Wichita, Kansas, was carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. Onboard the military helicopter were three US Army soldiers.

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