Federal authorities are investigating two separate aircraft accidents that occurred in New York over a three-day span, leaving a total of 12 people dead. The New York crashes include a sightseeing helicopter crashed into the Hudson River on April 10, followed by a small plane crash in upstate New York on April 12.
New York Crashes Under Investigation
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are leading both investigations, which have raised serious questions about aviation safety and oversight.
Sightseeing Helicopter Crashes into Hudson River
A Bell 206 helicopter operated by New York Helicopter plummeted into the Hudson River shortly after 3:15 p.m. ET on April 10.
The helicopter, carrying a Spanish family of five and a pilot, was on an aerial tour of New York City when it crashed upside down into the water. All six people onboard died, including:
- Agustín Escobar, a Siemens executive
- His wife, Merce Camprubi Montal
- Their three children
- The pilot, Sean Johnson
Following the crash, the FAA announced that New York Helicopter Charter voluntarily grounded its fleet.
