Company Closes Down After Tragic Hudson River Helicopter Crash

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced on Sunday that New York Helicopter Tours, also known as New York Helicopter Charter, is ceasing operations immediately following a tragic crash that claimed the lives of six people. The FAA has also indicated that it will promptly review the company's operating license and safety history. The recent crash has reignited safety concerns surrounding New York's sightseeing helicopter industry, which has seen several fatal accidents in recent years. Over the past two decades, mechanical failures, pilot errors, and collisions have resulted in five commercial sightseeing helicopter crashes in the Hudson and East rivers, leading to a total of 20 fatalities. New York Helicopter Tours has had safety incidents in 2013 and 2015, prompting further scrutiny of their safety practices. The fatal crash involved a Bell 206 helicopter that broke apart midair and crashed into the water last Thursday. Law enforcement first responded to the incident around 3:17 p.m. ET, with rescue teams arriving swiftly. The victims of the crash included Agustin Escobar, his wife, Mercè Camprubí Montal, and their three children, as well as the pilot, Seankese Johnson. Following the incident, Senate Democratic Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called for federal authorities to revoke New York Helicopter Tours' operating permits. The FAA, in a statement on social media, confirmed the company's closure and expressed their commitment to supporting the NTSB's investigation. They also announced plans to launch a helicopter safety panel to discuss the findings, risks, and mitigation options. President Donald Trump extended his condolences to the victims' families and pledged to provide more information on the incident shortly. In the coming days, the FAA will continue to review the company's operating license and safety record while the NTSB conducts its investigation into the crash.