Midair Helicopter Collision in New Jersey Claims One Life, One Pilot Injured

In a shocking event near Hammonton Municipal Airport, New Jersey, two helicopters crashed midair, resulting in one fatality and leaving another pilot in critical condition. The incident took place around 11:25 a.m., as reported by local officials.

Eyewitnesses described a distressing scene where one helicopter spiraled uncontrollably before plummeting to the ground. Emergency crews arrived promptly, battling flames that engulfed one of the helicopters. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) identified the aircraft involved as Enstrom helicopters—an F-28A and a 280C, both occupied solely by their pilots. One pilot died on-site, and the other was rushed to a hospital with severe injuries.

Local residents and business owners reacted with shock to the incident. A nearby café owner noted that both pilots were familiar faces, often seen sharing breakfast before flying. “We watched them take off, and then one helicopter suddenly started to spiral downwards, closely followed by the other. It was horrifying,” the owner recounted.

Another witness shared his experience, recalling the moments leading up to the accident. He described how one helicopter flipped upside down and began to spin uncontrollably, soon followed by the other after a loud cracking sound.

Hammonton, a town of approximately 15,000 people in Atlantic County, New Jersey, is situated about 35 miles southeast of Philadelphia and is recognized for its agricultural roots and proximity to the dense Pine Barrens wilderness.

Authorities from the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have initiated a detailed investigation into the incident. Aviation safety experts suggest investigators will analyze communications between the pilots and review cockpit video, if available, to ascertain whether visibility challenges or pilot error contributed to the crash. Midair collisions frequently occur when pilots fail to see each other in sufficient time for evasive action.

The weather at the time of the accident was predominantly cloudy, but visibility remained good with light wind, indicating that the conditions were unlikely to have played a significant role.

As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of one pilot and hopes for a swift recovery for the other, while authorities strive to clarify the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.