Two Pilots Killed in Hammonton Helicopter Collision

Two helicopters crashed in Hammonton, New Jersey, over the weekend, killing both pilots. Around 11:25 a.m., the incident occurred on Basin Road 100, 1.5 miles from Hammonton Municipal Airport.

The second pilot, 65-year-old Kenneth L. Kirsch of Carneys Point, died Sunday at Cooper University Hospital in Camden. First pilot, 71-year-old Michael Greenberg of Sewell, died at the crash site. Only two helicopter pilots were on board at the disaster, officials added.

The helicopters were Enstrom F-28A/280C. Local authorities said one helicopter exploded into flames after colliding, but no one was hurt. Chief Kevin Friel of Hammonton Police said the plane crashed because it was flying in formation.

Community members remembered regular pilot visits. According to Apron Cafe proprietor Sal Silipino, the men were “very pleasant” and routinely visited for breakfast before flights. “They were always together. Silipino said the other was behind him whenever he flew.

Local officials including U.S. Senator Cory Booker termed the tragedy “horrifying and tragic” and extended sympathies to the families.

FAA and NTSB are investigating crash cause. Investigators urge care and patience as they strive to ascertain the crash’s cause.

Aviation is dangerous, especially when many planes are involved. To prevent future disasters, officials have prioritized safety and aviation standards.

Sources:

• Hammonton Police Department

• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

• National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)