Helicopter pilot unit suspended from flights following a plane crash near Washington.

Near Washington today, January 30, a passenger plane collided with a helicopter. The unit whose pilots were involved in the crash has been grounded.

This was stated by Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth, as reported by RBK-Ukraine citing Reuters.

According to Hegseth, the helicopter crew, which consisted of three members, was "sufficiently experienced" and was operating with night vision goggles. The crew was conducting their annual training flight.

"We expect that during the investigation, we will quickly determine whether the aircraft was in the corridor and at the correct altitude at the time of the incident," said the Pentagon chief.

Additionally, the defense minister noted that the Pentagon has ordered a suspension of flights for the 12th aviation battalion, whose personnel were involved in the accident, for 48 hours.

Crash of Plane and Helicopter in Washington

Recall that in the USA, an American Airlines passenger plane collided with a Black Hawk helicopter near Washington, after which they fell into the river.

According to preliminary information, there are no survivors from the aviation disaster. There were 64 people on board the plane and three military personnel in the helicopter. Rescuers are currently working at the crash site.

As stated by U.S. President Donald Trump, the tragedy could have been avoided if the military helicopter had changed its course.

For more details on the tragedy - in the RBK-Ukraine report.