New York Helicopter Tours has suspended all operations immediately following a fatal helicopter crash into the Hudson River that left six people dead.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the shutdown in a statement released on Sunday night, adding that a full review of the company’s license and safety practices is now underway.
The crash, which occurred last Thursday, claimed the lives of a Spanish family visiting the U.S.—Agustin Escobar, 49; Mercè Camprubí Montal, 39; and their children Victor, 4; Mercedes, 8; and Agustin, 10—alongside 36-year-old pilot Seankese Johnson. Johnson, a U.S. Navy veteran, was certified as a commercial pilot in 2023 and had accumulated more than 800 flight hours.
According to an update from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the helicopter lacked flight data recorders and onboard cameras, raising further questions about the company’s safety protocols.
The NTSB has launched a separate investigation into the incident.
Despite halting flights, the company’s website remained live as of Monday morning, featuring a message expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy and referring media inquiries to federal authorities.
Efforts by the Associated Press to contact the company’s president, Michael Roth, were unsuccessful.
The crash has reignited debate over the safety of sightseeing helicopter tours in New York City. During a Sunday press briefing, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called for the company to remain grounded until investigations are complete. He also pushed for surprise safety inspections of other tour operators, calling the activity “risky.”
New York City Mayor Eric Adams, however, stopped short of supporting a complete ban, suggesting on Friday that more restrictions may not be necessary.
Meanwhile, the Eastern Regional Helicopter Council responded to growing concerns, stating that New York City’s tour flights already follow some of the strictest aviation regulations in the country.
The FAA, acknowledging rising safety concerns, announced plans to analyze helicopter and airplane “hotspots” across the nation. A safety summit focused on helicopter operations is scheduled for April 22, where officials are expected to present findings and suggest new safety measures.
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