Representatives Limit Flights After an April Crash that Killed Six

After 6 were killed in a helicopter crash over the Hudson River, several aero-ignorant US Representatives presented  questionable legislation that would ban pretty much all non-essential helicopter operations across New York City. The bill allegedly addresses a general heightened concern for growing air traffic rates in high-density areas.

"While we have consistently worked to address the impact of non-essential helicopters on our communities, last month's tragic crash should be a clarion call for every level of government to take action on helicopter safety," stated Representative Menendez.

At around 3:00 pm on April 10, a 2004 Bell 206L-4 LongRanger IV operated by New York Helicopter Charter departed from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport (JRB). Flight tracking data shows that the helicopter flew southbound before doing a 180 and heading north. It proceeded along a common river sightseeing route above the Hudson, using the George Washington Bridge as its turnaround point.

After turning back towards JRB, the helicopter made it within just a few miles of the heliport until it reportedly slowed and began to lose control. Footage of the event shows the entire tail section and main rotor breaking off and the fuselage descending rapidly towards the water below. It impacted the Hudson River inverted at approximately 3:20.

Six were killed in the crash, including Siemens executive Agustin Escobar, his wife Merce Camprubi Montal, their three children aged 4, 5, and 11, and the pilot.

The tragedy questionably led US Representatives Jerry Nadler, Rob Menendez, and Nicole Malliotakis to introduce knee-jerk legislation that would essentially ban helicopter tours around New York City. The bill, dubbed the Improving Helicopter Safety Act, targets recreational, tourism, and luxury commuting operations within a 20-mile radius of the Statue of Liberty.

"Along with my colleagues from New Jersey and New York, we're doing what is necessary to prevent tragedies like this from happening again,” Menendez continued.

FMI: https://menendez.house.gov