Midair Helicopter Collision Near Hammonton Leaves One Dead, One Critically Injured

Sunday morning, two helicopters collided near Hammonton, southern New Jersey. A pilot died and another was injured. Authorities said the incident occurred at 11:25 a.m. on Basin Road near Hammonton Municipal Airport in Atlantic County.

Police believe an Enstrom F-28A/280C helicopter crashed. Federal aviation officials identified the helicopters. Pilots flew both planes solo. Investigations suggest that helicopters flying too close together caused the fatal crash.

After colliding, both helicopters crashed beside the road. A jet caught fire shortly after landing, spewing dense black smoke. Nearby businesses captured smoke billowing from the crash scene and one aircraft spinning out of control before hitting, demonstrating how immediate and horrible the event was.

Firefighters, police, and EMTs arrived quickly. The pilot died on the scene. The second pilot is hospitalized next door after being critically injured.

Basin Road and the surrounding neighborhood were briefly closed while police secured the site and began their investigation. People and cars were instructed to stay away as personnel examined the debris and gathered evidence.

The FAA confirmed the flights and said the NTSB is investigating. The NTSB will examine flight paths, pilot behaviors, and mechanical or environmental issues that may have caused the occurrence. Investigators have also encouraged anyone who saw the helicopters before or during the incident to come forward.

Community officials said the episode was concerning because Hammonton Municipal Airport and its surroundings are used for training and pleasure flights. Helicopters seldom collide, but aviation experts advise staying away and talking when there are many.

Police have not found the pilots yet during the investigation. Federal investigators will provide updates after inspecting the crash scene.

Sources

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)
Hammonton Police Department
Hammonton Fire Department