National Transportation Safety Board investigators are on the scene attempting to determine what caused an Augusta 109E helicopter to crash onto the rooftop of a Manhattan skyscraper on Monday afternoon, killing the pilot and causing a fire atop the building that briefly caused panic for those inside and on the streets below.
NTSB Begins Investigation into Cause of New York City Helicopter Crash
Key Takeaways:
- An Augusta 109E helicopter crashed onto a Manhattan skyscraper rooftop, killing the pilot, Tim McCormack, and causing a fire.
- The accident occurred amid poor visibility (1/2 mile, 400-foot overcast); the pilot did not possess an instrument rating, though the helicopter was IFR equipped.
- Prior to the crash, the helicopter was observed flying erratically, briefly losing and regaining control before climbing into the clouds, leading to an NTSB investigation into potential causes like mechanical issues, pilot incapacitation, or disorientation.
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