Senator Demands Action After Fatal Helicopter Crash in Hudson River

NEW YORK (AP) — New York Senator Chuck Schumer is urging federal authorities to revoke the operating permits of New York Helicopter Tours after a tragic crash on Thursday claimed the lives of a family of five from Spain and a Navy SEAL veteran pilot. The sightseeing helicopter fell into the Hudson River, prompting an immediate investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board.

During a press conference on Sunday, Schumer stated that all flights operated by New York Helicopter Tours should be suspended while inquiries are underway. “The Federal Aviation Administration must ensure their safety inspections are thorough and frequent for all helicopter tour operators,” he said.

The incident occurred in Jersey City, New Jersey, when witnesses reported seeing the helicopter break apart in midair shortly before it plunged into the river. Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene, but unfortunately, there were no survivors.

Schumer, flanked by other state lawmakers, emphasized the importance of passenger safety in aviation. “We need to hold these companies accountable to prevent such tragedies in the future,” he added, expressing concern over the safety records of helicopter tour companies.

As of press time, inquiries made to New York Helicopter Tours regarding the crash and their operational standards have gone unanswered. The Federal Aviation Administration currently oversees a regulatory environment where rental and tour helicopter operations are increasing, raising alarms about safety standards.

Legislative measures are expected to follow as families of the deceased push for stricter regulations to ensure that safety protocols are robust enough to prevent similar incidents. Schumer’s call to action comes amid a growing scrutiny of air tour companies in the region.

Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board have arrived at the crash site to recover pieces of the wreckage and gather evidence as part of their inquiry. Public safety advocates demand transparency from the National Transportation Safety Board in releasing preliminary findings to avoid passenger-related accidents in the future.