What caused the helicopter to crash into the Hudson? | KTVU

Officials from the NTSB are investigating the deadly crash that killed a family from Spain taking a helicopter tour in New York City.

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[lesly]

Something doesn't seem right with this incident case.

[michellek]

The need to refuel doesnt cause it to break apart mid air. Pilot and family RIP. 💔🙏

[loversLorraine]

You have my condolences to the family and

[patricias]

It is so terribly sad. And, of course, a tragedy for the pilot, too.

[BoxEatingKing]

I'd say a potential lack of maintenance could've caused this. Tour flight companies are constantly trying to have their people in the air with clients

[Radiocontrolledrepaircompany]

My guess is Main rotor seized, the inertia of the blades then spins the gearbox off the air frame and this also folds the air frame at the weakest point of the boom. Note in the pics that the boom isn't straight with the body. Rip. Very sad 😢

[Knifemeetu]

Calling for Fuel was probably just what the Pilot said so no one in the chopper would panic. I imagine there was some horrible vibration before separation and he knew something was terribly wrong. This is just conjecture but I imagine the pilot was probably thinking of the passengers.

[markrivard]

Why does she accentuate her words like she is talking to a 3 year old?

[DonaldRawlinson]

The job of NTSB is to determine cause. Speculation: Not fair to those that lost their lives. Wait for the report. Several things are going on in this accident that need to be addressed. Please be patient - supposition will only create problems for any surviving family members and friends. Old helicopter pilot.

[knickyak]

Up 18 minutes and needed emergency fuel ? What

[BusBoulevard-mogo]

Helicopters are not safe this is heartbreaking

[dlross]

Fell apart while midair? Those poor people. Soubds like a helicopter issue.

[chinocracy]

The rotors came apart from the chopper still attached to the gearbox. That's a clue to the cause

[gorce]

Maintenance is @ fault.. this is why you need aircraft mechanics.. the technicians that worked on that aircraft will be called into question

[mrmelmba]

The engine faltering as it ran out fuel, firing occasionally, caused an extreme wobble so that the propeller blade struck the body of the craft and flew off.

[JimmieHamilton-xk]

Why would it need fuel after only 18 minutes?A half empty Olde English malt liquor 40 oz. was the pilots backpack.

[ricladouceur]

Not sure why NTSB needs to investigate when we have all these internet experts!

[Siouxperman]

The choppers own blade chopped the back tail end causing it to flip upside down.

[ConcealedCourier]

Jennifer Homendy has been in front of cameras too many times this year.💀

[sarahdixon]

Uggh.. I had hoped they didn't have to "time to know/realize" what was happening... 😔 😟