NYC Helicopter Crash Claims Six Lives

A tragic helicopter crash in the Hudson River claimed the lives of six people, including a Spanish family of five and the pilot. The single-engine Bell 206 helicopter, operated by New York Helicopter, went down shortly after 3:15 p.m. on Thursday. The aircraft was reportedly operating a sightseeing tour.

Details of the Crash

Witnesses described a sudden descent, with the helicopter hitting the water inverted. Rescue officials quickly responded, recovering the victims from the river. Four victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while two others died at area hospitals. The identities of the victims have not yet been released.

<img src="https://www.usatoday.com/gcdn/authoring/authoring-images/2025/04/10/USAT/83033833007-6725.jpg?crop=2636,1483,x0,y137|2636x1483|16x9" alt="Image of the helicopter crash site">

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the cause of the accident. Early reports suggest the helicopter was on a standard sightseeing tour route, costing approximately $274 per person. The weather at the time was reported as cloudy with a southeast wind.

Helicopter Safety Concerns

This tragedy reignites concerns about helicopter safety in and around New York City. The incident follows other recent crashes, including a fatal crash near Reagan National Airport that killed 67. This prompted the FAA to restrict helicopter traffic near the airport and review operations near other major airports.

The organization Stop the Chop highlights a concerning number of helicopter crashes in NYC since 1980, many resulting in serious injuries and fatalities, calling for stricter regulations on nonessential helicopter flights.

Official Response

Mayor Eric Adams expressed his condolences to the victims' families and confirmed the ongoing investigation. Several New York lawmakers also offered their prayers and support through social media posts.

Flight Path

Flight tracking data reveals the helicopter's flight path, showing a brief loop around the Statue of Liberty before heading north along the Hudson River and returning toward Manhattan.