Company involved in fatal NYC helicopter crash is shutting down
New York Helicopter Tours, the company behind the tragic helicopter crash into the Hudson River last week, has announced the immediate shutdown of its operations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed this decision on Sunday, stating that they will be supporting the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation into the incident.
The ill-fated helicopter, a Bell 206L-4 LongRanger IV, disintegrated midair before crashing into the water near Jersey City, New Jersey. All six individuals on board, including a Spanish family of five and the experienced Navy SEAL pilot, tragically lost their lives in the crash.
Following the incident, the FAA has initiated a review of the tour operator’s license and safety record. They have also announced plans to convene a helicopter safety panel on April 22 to discuss potential risks and mitigation strategies. Safety remains the FAA’s top priority, and they are committed to taking necessary actions to ensure the safety of the flying public.
The NTSB revealed that the helicopter was not equipped with any flight recorders, and none of the onboard avionics recorded information that could aid in the investigation. Investigators have begun examining the helicopter’s flight control system and have recovered key components of the aircraft for further analysis.
Divers from the New York City Police Department (NYPD) are currently searching for additional parts of the helicopter, including the main rotor, main gearbox, tail rotor, and a significant portion of the tail boom. The NTSB will be sending some of the recovered parts to their laboratories in Washington for closer inspection.
Prior to the crash, the helicopter had undergone its last major inspection on March 1. It had completed seven tour flights before the fatal eighth flight that ended in tragedy. The NTSB, along with the FAA, Bell Helicopter, and Rolls-Royce, are actively involved in the investigation process.
The shutdown of New York Helicopter Tours marks a somber end to a company that provided aerial tours of the city’s iconic landmarks. The loss of lives in this tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety in aviation operations. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the victims during this difficult time.
