Hudson River. Photo: shutterstock The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced that New York Helicopter Tours, the operator involved in the fatal crash over the Hudson River earlier this week, has suspended all operations with immediate effect.
The decision follows a deadly accident that claimed the lives of several passengers and is being described as one of the most serious helicopter incidents in the New York area in recent years.
In response, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a formal investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Simultaneously, the FAA has initiated an urgent review of the operator’s license and safety record, as part of a broader effort to ensure aviation safety standards are met.
Expanding the Investigation and Preparations at the National Level
In addition to the specific event, the FAA reported that it has begun analyzing risk areas in helicopter and aircraft flight paths across the U.S. as part of a comprehensive effort to improve flight safety.
On April 22, the agency is expected to hold a special panel on helicopter safety, where current findings will be presented, risks analyzed, and additional measures to reduce dangers discussed.
According to an FAA spokesperson: "Safety is our top priority. We will not hesitate to take any necessary steps to protect the flying public."
As a reminder, six people were killed in the helicopter crash into the Hudson River in Manhattan, New York – including a couple and their three children, tourists from Madrid, as well as the helicopter pilot.
The accident occurred in the early afternoon, near Spring Street and Dock 40, when the helicopter appeared to have broken apart in midair before plunging into the river.
