The aircraft broke apart in midair, possibly caused by a rotor failure.
The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the crash of a tourist helicopter into the Hudson River on Thursday between New York and New Jersey. An executive from Siemens, his wife, and three children, all visiting from Spain, were killed in the crash, as well as the pilot.
The NYPD commissioner said, “The helicopter reached the George Washington Bridge and then turned again to fly south along the New Jersey shoreline. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft lost control and hit the water just a few feet off the coast of Pier A Park in Hoboken.”
President Trump responded to the tragedy, stating, “Terrible helicopter crash in the Hudson River. … God bless the families and friends of the victims. Secretary of Transportation, Sean Duffy, and his talented staff are on it.”
Transportation Secretary Duffy stated Thursday evening, “We pray for the victims and their families. Here’s what we know: The tour helicopter was in the Special Flight Rules Area established in New York which means no air traffic control services were being provided when the helicopter crashed. Several minutes prior to entering the Special Flight Rules Area, Air Traffic Control from LaGuardia airport was providing support. The FAA will have investigators on site tonight and we are also launching a Safety Review Team later tonight. We will provide updates as we have them.”
The prime minister of Spain said, “I share in the grief of the victims’ loved ones at this heartbreaking time.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Acting Administrator Chris Rocheleau as he oversees the Federal Aviation Administration.
- For Chair Jennifer Homendy as she heads the National Transportation Safety Board.
- For state and local officials as they collaborate on the investigation into why the helicopter crashed.
- For God’s comfort for the loved ones of the victims in the crash.
Sources: MSN, CBS Philadelphia, Townhall
