Second pilot dies from midair helicopter collision, both identified

Key Concepts

• Mid-air collision: An accident where two aircraft collide while in flight.
• FAA (Federal Aviation Administration): The U.S. government agency responsible for regulating civil aviation.
• NTSB (National Transportation Safety Board): The U.S. government agency responsible for investigating transportation accidents.
• Tandem flight: A flight configuration where two helicopters fly close together, often used for training or demonstration purposes.

Helicopter Collision – Initial Report

This report details a fatal mid-air helicopter collision that occurred on Sunday. Witnesses reported the two helicopters were flying in tandem formation at the time of the incident. This suggests a potentially coordinated flight, possibly involving training or a pre-planned maneuver. The location of the crash is near a local cafe, where both pilots reportedly had breakfast earlier that day, indicating a pre-flight routine and a personal connection between the two individuals.

Pilot Identification & Demographics

The pilots have been identified as Kennet Kersh, aged 65, and Michael Greenberg, aged 71. The cafe owner’s statement highlights that the pilots were friends, adding a personal dimension to the tragedy. This detail, while not directly related to the cause of the crash, underscores the impact of the event.

Investigation & Agencies Involved

Currently, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are jointly investigating the cause of the collision. The FAA’s role will likely focus on regulatory compliance and flight procedures, while the NTSB will concentrate on a detailed accident reconstruction to determine the sequence of events and contributing factors. No specific details regarding the investigation’s focus have been released at this time.

Witness Testimony & Initial Observations

Initial reports rely heavily on witness testimony, describing the helicopters as flying in tandem. This formation, while not inherently dangerous, requires precise coordination and adherence to safety protocols. The fact that the collision occurred during tandem flight will likely be a key area of investigation.

Synthesis/Conclusion

A fatal mid-air helicopter collision resulted in the deaths of two pilots, identified as Kennet Kersh and Michael Greenberg. The incident occurred during a tandem flight, and investigations are underway by the FAA and NTSB to determine the cause. Initial reports indicate the pilots were acquainted and had a routine pre-flight breakfast. The investigation will focus on the circumstances surrounding the tandem flight and any potential factors contributing to the collision.