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Bird Strike Likely Cause of Fatal Hudson Helicopter Crash
16 Jul
Summary
- A bird strike is the most probable cause of the fatal helicopter crash.
- The accident claimed the lives of six individuals, including a family of five.
- NTSB recovered bird remains from the helicopter wreckage.

A recent National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report has concluded that a bird strike was the most probable cause of the helicopter crash in the Hudson River that tragically killed six people. The incident occurred near New York City in April 2025.
NTSB investigators discovered bird remains within the wreckage of the Bell 206L-4 helicopter. The same remains were also found in the vicinity of the crash site, strengthening the conclusion that avian impact led to the disaster.
Tragically, the crash resulted in the deaths of all six occupants. This included a family of five hailing from Spain, comprising three children and their parents, along with the helicopter's pilot. The investigation determined the date of the crash to be April 2025.