The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced an immediate review of the operating license and safety records of New York Helicopter Tour following a tragic crash that killed the pilot, a veteran Navy SEAL, and five Spanish tourists. The crash occurred when the helicopter malfunctioned mid-flight and plunged into the Hudson River on Thursday. Among the victims were Agustin Escobar, 49, his wife Merce Campulvi Montal, 39, and their three children.
New York Senator Chuck Schumer called for the suspension of the company’s flights and urged federal authorities to revoke their operating permission, citing concerns over the safety of helicopter tours in the city. He emphasized the need for stricter safety inspections across the industry, accusing some companies of compromising safety standards.
Helicopter tour companies have faced scrutiny in the past for crashes linked to mechanical failures and pilot errors, with a record of five helicopters going down in New York waters over the last 20 years, resulting in 20 fatalities. While the cause of the latest incident is still under investigation, Schumer noted ongoing efforts to locate parts of the helicopter. The Helicopter Council of Eastern Region defended the industry, stating that operators adhere to strict regulations and are willing to cooperate to improve safety measures.
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