All six individuals aboard perished when the aircraft crashed into the Hudson River.
On Thursday afternoon, a helicopter went down in New York City’s Hudson River near Pier 40. Videos show the aircraft disintegrating in the air before it crashed into the water.
The accident, which occurred around 3:15 p.m. local time, resulted in the deaths of all six passengers, according to New York City Mayor Eric Adams during a press conference. Among the deceased were a family of Spanish tourists, including three children, and the pilot.
Social media footage captured the moment the main rotor and tail boom of the Bell 206 helicopter separated while it was still airborne. The rotor blades, completely detached from the helicopter’s body, were seen spinning as they fell independently of the aircraft before both sections hit the water.
🚨 INSANE VIDEO: Helicopter breaks apart and FALLS OUT OF THE SKY into the Hudson River in NYC
Six people have been declared deceased.
This is absolutely terrifying to watch
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor)
The New York City Fire Department (FDNY) has confirmed that numerous rescue boats were dispatched to the site, surrounding the helicopter, which was largely submerged and upside down. Initial reports suggested that the pilot was rescued alive from the water, but the total number of casualties has yet to be confirmed.
Footage of the helicopter that crashed in the Hudson River in Manhattan, New York, flying erratically before crashing.
— Breaking News (@TheNewsTrending)
Due to ongoing emergency operations and traffic interruptions, authorities are advising the public to stay away from the area near West Side Highway and Spring Street.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have initiated an investigation into the cause of the accident. Officials have not yet determined what caused the apparent disintegration of the aircraft during flight.