NYC Helicopter Crash Sparks Outrage: Calls to Shut Down Heliports

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A recent helicopter crash in New York City's Hudson River, tragically killing a pilot and a Spanish family of five, has reignited calls for the closure of the city's heliports to non-essential traffic. The crash, according to advocates from the Stop the Chop group, was "entirely predictable and preventable."

Aging Helicopters and Safety Concerns

Andrew Rosenthal of Stop the Chop highlights the age of many helicopters, some being 30-40 years old. He draws a parallel to yellow cabs in the city, which are replaced every 5-8 years, questioning the lack of similar regulations for helicopters. He states, "If we had a rollercoaster that killed people every two years, we would not keep it operating…"

A History of Accidents

The recent tragedy adds to a concerning history. At least 38 people have died in helicopter accidents in NYC since 1977. Previous incidents include a 2009 collision killing nine and a 2018 crash resulting in five fatalities. Stop the Chop has also documented numerous non-fatal incidents.

Economic Implications and Political Response

The heliports generate a significant income for the city – $2.7 million annually in lease payments, supporting over 42,000 sightseeing trips. Mayor Eric Adams acknowledges the need for investigation into proper maintenance and safety but notes that these flights are a "part of the attraction of being in New York."

The Debate Continues

While the Mayor's office acknowledges the need for proper maintenance and safety protocols, Stop the Chop insists that the solution lies in closing the heliports to non-essential tourist flights, arguing that the risks far outweigh the economic benefits.