Interviews With NTSB And NYPD Are 'Consistent'

The NTSB has released a few more details as they get deeper into their investigation into an accident involving a Bell 206B helicopter which went down in New York's East River Tuesday.

NTSB Member Mark Roeskind (L), Lead Investigator Ralph Hicks

NTSB member Mark Rosekind briefed the media late in the afternoon Wednesday, saying that the pilot's interviews with board investigators and the NYPD were "consistent." He said the helicopter was rated for a maximum gross takeoff weight of 3,200 pounds, and that the board was in the process of determining the precise weight and balance for the flight.

The pilot told both the NTSB and the NYPD that he had departed Linden, NJ at 1445 EDT, and arrived at the heliport where four passengers embarked. The male passenger took the left front passenger seat, and the three female passengers sat on the rear bench seat.

"After takeoff, at about 50 feet above ground and about 45 degrees into a turn is when the pilot reported a problem," Rosekind said. "He considered turning left, but that would have been into a populated area. The aircraft then crashed into the water and then flipped upside down."

The wreckage was transported by trailer to a secure facility in Brooklyn. So far, Rosekind said the cockpit has been documented, including the positions of switches, gauges, and flight controls, and the engines and tail rotor systems are being inspected. Rosekind said that, at this point, there is no indication of fire, engine case rupture, or bird ingestion. There are no obvious signs of a catastrophic mechanical failure. He said he detailed examination continues and no conclusions are being drawn from this information.

Rosekind said the NTSB staff members on site will continue their detailed examination of the wreckage. Investigators will be also obtaining NYPD interviews, reviewing them, and contacting those whom they determine should be interviewed again.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov