Fatal Helicopter Crash in Hudson River Claims Six Lives

Investigators face challenges as lack of flight recorders and onboard cameras complicates efforts to determine cause of Bell 206 crash during sightseeing tour.

• A Bell 206 helicopter crashed into the Hudson River near Jersey City during its eighth sightseeing flight of the day, killing all six onboard, including three children, a Siemens Mobility manager, his wife, and the pilot.
• The helicopter lacked flight recorders and onboard video systems, leaving investigators without critical data to determine the cause of the crash.
• The NTSB is reviewing operational records, safety protocols, and the pilot's experience with the operator, New York Helicopter Charter Inc., as part of the ongoing investigation.
• The helicopter had been inspected on March 1, 2025, and had successfully completed seven flights earlier on the day of the crash.
• Preliminary analysis suggests the possibility of a catastrophic mechanical failure, but the exact cause remains undetermined as recovery efforts continue.

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