I put safety first: Donald Trump blames Obama, Biden's 'diversity hires' for plane-chopper crash

The President claimed that these initiatives prioritised policy over safety, stating, "I put safety first. Obama, Biden, and the Democrats put policy first."

He said: "They actually came out with a directive: 'too white.' And we want the people that are competent".

President Trump assured the American people it is safe to fly stating: "We have the safest flying anywhere in the world — and we'll keep it that way."

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)'s hiring practices have been under scrutiny, with some critics arguing that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs can be discriminatory.

However, supporters of these initiatives contend that they address historical and ongoing discrimination against underrepresented groups, including racial minorities.

The American Airlines flight, which collided with a Black Hawk helicopter, was carrying 64 people. Three soldiers were in the chopper.

Washington Fire Chief John Donnelly confirmed at a press conference at Reagan National Airport that no survivors were expected.

Donnelly there are no survivors in the accident and the rescue operation will be converted into a recovery operation.

About 300 first responders searched for the bodies in the freezing river, said DC Fire chief John A. Donnelly.

Air traffic controllers had warned the US Army Blackhawk helicopter that it was on course to collide with a passenger jet.

Audio captured during the accident reveals audible gasps from the control room as the crash unfolded.

The collision occurred on Wednesday night, when the helicopter collided with a Bombardier aircraft, operated by an American Airlines subsidiary, which was approaching for landing at Reagan National Airport.

Following a "fireball" explosion, both aircraft plunged into the icy Potomac River.