NYC helicopter tour operator closes after fatal Hudson River crash: FAA

The helicopter tour company responsible for the tragic crash into the Hudson River, resulting in the loss of all six individuals on board, is ceasing operations immediately, as announced by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA revealed this decision on Sunday, emphasizing their commitment to aiding the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in their inquiry into the incident and initiating a rigorous evaluation of the tour operator's licensing and safety history. The FAA is actively studying aviation safety nationwide, and will convene a helicopter safety panel on April 22 to address potential risks and solutions, prioritizing the safety of all air travelers. The fatal accident involving the New York City tour helicopter, a Bell 206L-4 LongRanger IV, disintegrated midair before plunging into the river near Jersey City, resulting in the tragic loss of a family of five from Spain and the experienced Navy SEAL pilot. As the NTSB conducts a thorough investigation into the crash, recovery efforts continue, with divers retrieving crucial parts of the helicopter for further analysis at NTSB labs in Washington. The NTSB affirmed that the helicopter lacked flight recorders, hindering data collection for the investigation. The FAA, together with Bell Helicopter and Rolls-Royce, is cooperating with the NTSB to gain insights into the accident, underscoring their unwavering commitment to aviation safety.