A helicopter crashed into the Hudson River on Thursday, with 6 people dead in the tragedy. The news was confirmed by New York City Mayor Eric Adams. The victims included the chopper pilot and five members of a visiting Spanish family — two adults and three children.
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the crash, which is among several major helicopter-related tragedies in the U.S. over the past two decades.
The tragedy brings the focus back on the major aviation accidents over the Hudson and Potomac rivers. Here’s a look at some of the most significant fatal helicopter crashes in recent American history:
Mid-air collision over Potomac kills 67
Arlington, Virginia | January 29, 2025 | Deaths: 67
A commercial jet descending into Reagan National Airport collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter. Both plunged into the icy Potomac River. Investigators suspect a communications failure. Captain Chesley Sullenberger called the nighttime incident “devastating.”
Pilot miraculously survives Hudson crash
New York City | May 15, 2019 | Deaths: 0
A helicopter crashed shortly after takeoff and sank into the Hudson. The pilot managed to escape unharmed. The incident revived concerns about safety around Manhattan’s heliports.
2009 mid-air crash over Hudson kills 9
New York City | August 8, 2009 | Deaths: 9
Not everyone was as lucky as the pilot in May 2019. A Liberty sightseeing helicopter carrying Italian tourists collided with a private plane in August 2008. All nine aboard were killed. The crash led to airspace regulation changes over Manhattan.
Miracle on the Hudson: None of the 155 lives aboard lost
New York City | January 15, 2009 | Deaths: 0
US Airways Flight 1549 safely landed on the Hudson after birds disabled both engines. All 155 on board survived. Captain Sullenberger’s heroism turned the near-disaster into a global symbol of calm and skill.
Sightseeing chopper drops into the Hudson
New York City | July 7, 2007 | Deaths: 0
A sightseeing helicopter dropped into the Hudson after a mechanical failure. All occupants were rescued, highlighting the effectiveness of emergency training.
NBC traffic reporter killed in Hudson crash
York City | October 22, 1986 | Deaths: 1
Radio reporter Jane Dornacker died when her traffic helicopter lost lift and plunged into the Hudson. The pilot survived. The incident led to scrutiny of news chopper safety.
Air Florida Flight 90 crashes into frozen Potomac
Washington, D.C. | January 13, 1982 | Deaths: 78
During a brutal snowstorm, Flight 90 failed to gain proper lift, clipped a bridge, and fell into the Potomac. Only five survived. Improper de-icing was blamed. Survivor Joe Stiley later described the terrifying moments before and after the crash.
