Mid Air Collision in New York

A fatal mid air collision involving a light aircraft and a helicopter has occurred this afternoon over the Hudson River, Manhattan, New York.

The plane, believed to be a Piper Saratoga, apparently collided with the back of an AS350 helicopter operated by Liberty Helicopters.

So far 2 bodies have been recovered and a recovery operation is under way for wreckage and further bodies. Mayor Bloomberg, who pilots his own Agusta 109, has stated that the crash is not survivable.

I flew with Liberty helicopters some three years ago in an EC130 on a sightseeing tour over New York. I found them to be very professional. A sad day for the heli community and the families of those on board.