NYC Helicopter Company Shuts Down After Hudson River Crash, FAA Says

NEW YORK CITY — New York Helicopter Tours, the company that owned the helicopter that crashed into the Hudson River, killing six people last Thursday, is shutting down its operations, the Federal Aviation Administration announced.

In a statement on Sunday, the FAA said it would launch an immediate review of the tour operator’s license and safety record.

"The FAA is already analyzing airplane/helicopter hotspots nationwide, and we will be hosting a helicopter safety panel on April 22 to discuss the findings, risks, and additional mitigation options," the FAA said. "Safety is the FAA’s number one priority, and we will not hesitate to act to protect the flying public."

In a message on its website, New York Helicopter Tours wrote it was " profoundly saddened by the tragic accident and loss of life that occurred on April 10, 2025, involving one of our helicopters in the Hudson River."

"At New York Helicopter Tours, the safety and well-being of our passengers and crew has always been the cornerstone of our operations. Our immediate focus is supporting the families and their loved ones affected by this tragedy, as well as fully cooperating with the FAA and NTSB investigations," the company added. "These agencies have asked us to respect the investigative process by referring all press inquiries to them for any further comment. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families."

Deadly Crash Thursday

A family of tourists from Spain and a pilot were among six killed in a helicopter crash over the Hudson River on April 10.

Agustin Escobar, a CEO at technology company Siemens, his wife Merce Camprubi Montal, their children, ages 4, 5 and 11, as well as a 36-year-old pilot died in the crash, according to an ABC News report.

The pilot has been identified as Sean Johnson, according to reports.

The helicopter went down in the vicinity of the West Side Highway and Spring Street in Manhattan near Pier 40 around 3:17 p.m., the NYPD said.

Four victims were pronounced dead at the scene, two others were transported to a local hospital where they succumbed to their injuries and were pronounced dead, officials said.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the chopper has been identified as a Bell 206 helicopter. It had taken off from the Downtown Skyport in Lower Manhattan, Patch previously reported.

The helicopter departed the skyport at 2:59 p.m. and lost control after it turned at the George Washington Bridge, making its way along the New Jersey shoreline, officials said.

"We are praying for the families and show our gratitude to the rescuers," Mayor Eric Adams said at a press conference following the crash.

A number of videos on social media captured the moments following the crash.

Witnesses near the scene described seeing the helicopter "fall from the sky" and they heard a loud boom before it crashed into the water.

The cause of the crash is currently under investigation.