New York Helicopter Tours is halting operations immediately following a deadly crash that killed a pilot and a Spanish family of five, the FAA announced Sunday. The agency also launched a review of the company’s license and safety history.
The sightseeing chopper broke apart midair before plunging into the Hudson River. Victims included Agustin Escobar, his wife, their three young children, and pilot Seankese Johnson, a Navy veteran. Senator Chuck Schumer had called for the company’s shutdown and broader safety reforms.
The tragedy has reignited concerns about helicopter tours over New York City, which have seen multiple deadly crashes in the past two decades.
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