US: Mid-air helicopter collision in New Jersey leaves one dead, another injured

Two helicopters collided mid-air in southern New Jersey on December 28, killing one person and injuring another, officials have said. Only the pilots were on board.

The aircraft involved were an Enstrom F-28A and an Enstrom 280C, which collided at around 11:25 a.m. near Hammonton Municipal Airport, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Both helicopters came down in a field, and the victims were airlifted to a trauma centre. One pilot was reportedly in possible cardiac arrest when taken aboard an ambulance, said Hammonton Fire Department Chief Sean Macri.

Footage showed debris scattered across the field, including mangled blades and wreckage. The red Enstrom F-28A was badly damaged, while the white Enstrom 280C was charred beyond recognition.

Sal Silipino, who owns a restaurant at the airport, said both pilots were regular visitors who had eaten breakfast at his café shortly before taking off.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation, gathering flight data, maintenance records, communications, and witness statements. The wreckage will be moved to a secure facility for further evaluation.

Senators Cory Booker and Andy Kim expressed condolences on social media, calling the crash “horrifying” and promising support for the family of the deceased.

Hammonton, in Atlantic County, is about 35 miles from Philadelphia, near the New Jersey Pine Barrens. The fire department has urged the public to avoid the area while emergency services respond.

By Aghakazim Guliyev