On April 10, 2025, a tragic helicopter crash occurred over the Hudson River near Jersey City, New Jersey, resulting in the deaths of all six individuals aboard. The helicopter, a Bell 206 LongRanger IV operated by New York Helicopter, was on a sightseeing tour when it experienced a catastrophic in-flight breakup. Witnesses reported hearing a loud noise and observing the helicopter disintegrate midair, with the main rotor and tail section separating before the aircraft plunged into the river. Among the victims were a family of five from Spain and the 36-year-old pilot, a Navy veteran. Emergency responders recovered the bodies from the water, but the crash raised serious concerns about the safety of helicopter tours in the city.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are investigating the cause of the crash, focusing on the helicopter’s mechanical systems and maintenance history. The aircraft involved was a 21-year-old model that had undergone its last major inspection in March 2025. The lack of onboard flight data and cockpit voice recorders has complicated the investigation. This incident has reignited debates over the regulation of tourist helicopter flights in New York City, with some advocating for stricter safety measures and limitations on such operations.
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https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/hudson-river-helicopter-crash/
https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/13/us/schumer-helicopter-company-hudson-river-crash/index.html
https://abcnews.go.com/US/helicopter-crashes-hudson-river-new-york-city/story?id=120691975
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https://www.nytimes.com/live/2025/04/10/nyregion/hudson-river-helicopter-crash
