Helicopter tour company shuts down operations after Hudson River crash
NEW YORK CITY (PIX11) – The helicopter tour company involved in Thursday’s deadly Hudson River crash is shutting down operations completely, according to the FAA.
A Bell 206 L-4 helicopter crashed into the Hudson River Thursday just after 3 p.m., according to the officials. Six people died in the crash, including a family visiting from Spain and the pilot, according to officials.
The helicopter was operated by New York Helicopter Charter Inc., according to the National Transit Safety Board. It was the helicopter’s eighth trip of the day, and it had last been inspected on March 1, according to the NTSB.
The NTSB is investigating, and the FAA on Sunday night said it will also open a review of the company's license.
"Additionally, the FAA will be launching an immediate review of the tour operator's license and safety record," the FAA said in a statement to X.
On Sunday, Sen. Chuck Schumer raised concerns about "Part 91" licenses, the kind used by New York Helicopter Tours. He called on the FAA to revoke the company’s license and increase surprise inspections of other tour companies.
In a statement to Instagram, the company said it is cooperating with the FAA and NTSB investigations.