Heartbreaking Moments Before the Crash

“When you see that picture… it just totally breaks your heart,” Schumer expressed, reflecting on the tragic circumstances of the family of five just before their flight.

Safety Concerns Raised by Schumer

Schumer highlighted serious concerns regarding the company’s safety protocols, stating, “The company was operating under the lowest bar of safety,” and citing that almost 11 individuals have died during flights associated with the company.

He added, “They could very well be putting profit over people,” emphasizing the need for immediate regulatory action.

Immediate Actions Proposed

In addition to urging the FAA to revoke New York Helicopter Charter Inc.’s operating certificate, Schumer is advocating for an immediate halt to all its flights during the ongoing investigation.

“I’m urging the FAA to pull their operating certificate immediately,” Schumer stated emphatically.

Implications for Other Tour Operators

Following the crash, Schumer criticized other helicopter tour companies, notably FlyNYON Helicopter Tours, which reportedly offered significant discounts on flights similar to the one involved in the disaster. He deemed this practice “outrageous and disrespectful to the victims,” highlighting concerns over prioritizing profit in the wake of tragedy.

Enhanced Safety Measures Suggested

Schumer is also calling for the FAA to enforce increased “ramp checks,” surprise inspections of helicopter tour companies to ensure compliance with safety standards. Such unannounced inspections, analogous to food safety inspections, are recommended to confirm that these companies adhere to safety regulations.

Aging Aircraft and Oversight Issues

Concerns were raised regarding the age of the helicopter involved in the crash, which was reported to be 21 years old. Schumer questioned the FAA’s oversight regarding older helicopters still in operation, stating, “We can’t let this continue. It’s time for real reform in the helicopter tour industry.”

Investigation Progress

The investigation has revealed that the helicopter’s last major inspection occurred on March 1, just weeks before the accident. Current efforts by NYPD divers are focused on locating key wreckage components, utilizing side-scanning sonar technology.

Thus far, investigators have recovered several crucial parts, including the helicopter’s main fuselage and sections of the tail. However, the helicopter lacked essential flight data recording equipment, complicating the examination of the incident’s causes.

As investigators continue to review operational records and safety practices, the absence of flight data has prompted scrutiny of the company’s protocols.

Identifying the Victims

The tragic crash claimed the lives of Agustin Escobar, a Siemens executive from Spain, his wife Mercè Camprubí Montal, their three children, and the pilot, 36-year-old Seanqese Johnson. Notably, one of the children, 8-year-old Mercedes, had a birthday approaching the day after the crash.

Seanqese Johnson, a Navy SEAL turned helicopter pilot, frequently showcased his piloting experiences on social media, marking significant milestones in his career.